
Can I switch from spousal benefits to my own online? Hi. All I can tell you is that nothing on Social Security's website indicates that you won't be able to apply for your own benefits online. And, you definitely will have to file an application in order to switch to drawing your own benefits.
Can I switch from spousal benefits to my own retirement benefits?
In the “remarks” box at the end of the application, you can explain that you are currently receiving spousal benefits and you want to switch to your own maximum retirement benefits beginning the month you turn 70. “We encourage people to use our online services to file for benefits, however it is not the only way to file a claim,” Lutz wrote.
Can I apply for spousal benefits if my spouse hasn’t filed?
In short, the answer is, yes. Sometimes. The rules around spousal benefits can be complicated. Generally speaking, you can only apply for spousal benefits if your spouse has applied for their retirement benefits. If your spouse is eligible for retirement benefits, but has not yet filed for them, you can’t apply.
How do I apply for spousal benefits on my own record?
“If someone is already receiving spousal benefits and decides later to file for retirement benefits on his or her own record, he or she can apply for these benefits online,” Social Security spokesman Darren Lutz confirmed in an email. Go to www.ssa.gov. On the main page, click on “online services” and then select “apply for retirement benefits.”
How do I change my survivor benefits to my own social security?
How Do I Change From Survivor Benefits to My Own Social Security? How do I change from a Social Security survivor benefit to my Social Security retirement benefit? You will have to file an application to switch from survivor benefits on a late spouse’s work record to retirement benefits on your own record.

How do I switch from spousal benefits to my own benefits?
You will have to file an application to switch from survivor benefits on a late spouse's work record to retirement benefits on your own record. You should apply four months before you want your retirement benefit to start.
Can I collect spousal benefits and then switch to my own Social Security?
Key Takeaways. A federal law passed in 2015 eliminated two strategies couples formerly used to maximize their Social Security benefits. Spouses born after Jan. 1, 1954, can no longer claim spousal benefits and later switch to collecting benefits based on their own work record.
Can I collect spousal benefits and wait until I am 70 to collect my own Social Security?
You can only collect spousal benefits and wait until 70 to claim your retirement benefit if both of the following are true: You were born before Jan. 2, 1954. Your spouse is collecting his or her own Social Security retirement benefit.
How do I change my spousal retirement benefit online?
Go to www.ssa.gov. On the main page, click on “online services” and then select “apply for retirement bene its.” Since you are currently collecting benefits on your spouse's record, you should be able to start a new application for retirement benefits under your own Social Security number.
Can I switch Social Security benefits online?
If you already receive Social Security benefits, you can update much of your information online with your personal my Social Security account. If you need to make a change that cannot be done through my Social Security, you can contact us for additional support.
Can you collect 1/2 of spouse's Social Security and then your full amount?
Your full spouse's benefit could be up to one-half the amount your spouse is entitled to receive at their full retirement age. If you choose to begin receiving spouse's benefits before you reach full retirement age, your benefit amount will be permanently reduced.
At what age is Social Security no longer taxed?
At 65 to 67, depending on the year of your birth, you are at full retirement age and can get full Social Security retirement benefits tax-free.
Can I take my Social Security at 62 and then switch to spousal benefit?
Only if your spouse is not yet receiving retirement benefits. In this case, you can claim your own Social Security beginning at 62 and make the switch to spousal benefits when your husband or wife files.
Can my wife collect spousal Social Security benefits before I retire?
No. You have to be receiving your Social Security retirement or disability benefit for your husband or wife to collect spousal benefits.
Does spousal Social Security benefits reduce my benefits?
Benefits paid to your spouse will not decrease your retirement benefit. In fact, the value of the benefits they may receive, added to your own, may help you decide if taking your benefits sooner may be more advantageous.
What is the maximum Social Security benefit for a married couple in 2021?
Maximum Social Security Benefit 2021 For 2021, the maximum Social Security benefit is just $3,011, per month, at full retirement age. Those who wait to claim benefits at age 70 could receive as much as $3,895 per month.
Can I collect spousal benefits and still work?
Your spousal or survivor benefits may be reduced if you are under full retirement age and continue to work. Social Security is phasing in the FRA increase differently for different types of benefits.
How long before you can file for survivor benefits?
You should apply four months before you want your retirement benefit to start.
Does Social Security pay for survivor benefits?
If you are eligible for both survivor and retirement benefits, Social Security will pay your own retirement benefit first , then top it up to match the survivor benefit if that amount is higher.
How much can I receive as a spouse?
The maximum you can receive as a spouse or ex-spouse is 50 percent of your former spouse’s benefit at Full Retirement Age. So, if their benefit at Full Retirement Age would be $2,000 a month, you may be eligible to receive up to $1,000 a month if you wait until Full Retirement Age to file for spousal benefits.
How much do I get if I file for Social Security at 62?
How much you receive, though, depends on when you file . If you file at age 62, you will receive a smaller percentage of your spouse’s benefit — roughly 30 percent versus 50 percent. Once you file for your benefits as a spouse, the amount you receive freezes at that amount for the rest of your life, which makes it worthwhile to see how long you can ...
Can I apply for spousal benefits if my spouse has retired?
The rules around spousal benefits can be complicated. Generally speaking, you can only apply for spousal benefits if your spouse has applied for their retirement benefits . If your spouse is eligible for retirement benefits, but has not yet filed for them, you can’t apply.
Can I get Social Security if my ex-husband made more money than I did?
In short, the answer is, yes.
Can I file for Social Security if I am an ex-spouse?
If, however, you are an ex-spouse, the rules are different. If you were married at least 10 years, and you and your former spouse are at least 62, and your former spouse is eligible for Social Security benefits, you may file for spousal benefits on their record even if they haven’t filed. Your filing as an ex-spouse will not impact the amount ...
