Ask Larry

What Effect Will Marriage Have On Our Benefits?

Me:
B: 02/15/58
Collect SS in 2018 after 60
Will marry in 2018 at 60 yrs.old
Data entered in system
Scenario calculated forward me is collect widower ben. At 60 and worker Ben. At 70.

Deceased Spouse:
B: 7/6/54
D: 3/2/15
Data entered in system

Fiancee:
B: 9/25/50
Started SS at 62.
1180/mo - at full retirement now.

Will marry fiancee at 60 for me and 67 for her.
What is the impact of the marriage on SS?
When I am collecting survivor and worker benefit?
(And even changes in her benefits)

Hi,

Your remarriage won't affect your entitlement to widower's benefits as long as you don't marry before your 60th birthday, nor will it affect your new wife's benefits on her own record. It's possible that she could qualify for an excess spousal benefit on your record when you file on your own record at age 70, but only if 50% of your full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than her own PIA. The maximization software available on this website should be able to tell you whether or not your new wife will eventually be eligible for any additional spousal benefits.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
May 24 2017 - 6:31am
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