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Both of your questions are really common! For state taxes, each state handles retirement income differently. While Social Security only handles federal withholding, many retirees set up quarterly estimated payments with their state. Some states don't tax Social Security benefits at all though - which state are you in? That makes a big difference. On Medicare - yes, you'll need documentation, but you should be fine. This situation (staying on a spouse's active employer plan) is specifically protected under Medicare rules. You qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Just make sure you apply within 8 months of when that coverage ends. Honestly, I'd recommend making an appointment at your local Social Security office for these questions. These issues are complex enough that speaking with someone directly is your best bet.
I'm in Vermont, which does tax a portion of SS benefits based on income. Thanks for suggesting the in-person appointment - that's probably the safest approach. I'll call to schedule something, and will look into that Claimyr service if I can't get through easily. Better to get this all squared away properly than risk penalties or tax headaches later!
does anybody else think its RIDICULOUS that ss wont withhold state taxes?? they already have all our information and do federal withholding. just one more thing to complicate retirement!!
YES! I've been saying this for years. Each agency making us jump through separate hoops. And then they wonder why retirees get frustrated with government systems. It's especially hard on people who aren't tech-savvy or have cognitive issues. My neighbor who's 82 gets so confused trying to manage all these different payment systems.
It's actually because state tax systems vary dramatically, and each state has different rules for taxing retirement benefits. Some states don't tax Social Security at all, others exempt certain amounts, and the rates differ widely. It would be extremely complex for SSA to maintain 50+ different state tax withholding systems. While frustrating, it makes sense why they don't handle it.
One more thing to consider - if you were married for at least 10 years, you might be eligible for spousal benefits based on your ex-spouse's record. You could receive up to 50% of their benefit amount if that's higher than your own benefit. This doesn't affect their benefit at all, and they don't even need to know you're claiming on their record. Also, if you're currently married, make sure you understand survivor benefits. If your spouse passes away, you'd be eligible to receive their full benefit amount if it's higher than your own.
I'm divorced after 22 years of marriage. My ex always earned a lot more than me. Does this mean I might get more based on his record than my own? And if I remarry, would I lose that option?
Yes, you might get more based on your ex's record. To find out, the SSA would need to know his Social Security number or date of birth and place of birth. And yes, if you remarry, you generally can't collect benefits on your ex's record unless your later marriage ends by death, divorce, or annulment.
Everyone's talking about the website but my grandson helped me call the Social Security number (1-800-772-1213) and they mailed me a statement that showed all my options. Took about 2 weeks to get it. Shows what I'd get at 62, 67, and 70. I'm going with 67 since my health isn't great and I need the money. Don't believe what the financial advisors say about always waiting - sometimes taking it earlier makes sense!
Just wanted to update this thread - WE WON THE APPEAL! After submitting all the documentation everyone suggested (Form 1372, letter from the school director, doctor's note, and most importantly the letter from our state education department), SSA reversed their decision.The state education department letter confirming that my son's specialized school meets educational requirements was definitely the key piece of evidence. They've reinstated his benefits AND will be sending backpay for the months he missed.For anyone dealing with this issue, definitely cite POMS RS 00205.300 like @former_claims_specialist suggested, and get that state education dept verification. Thank you all for your help!
if your husbands abusive why wait til december? the 2 year mark only matters for certain benefits but not worth staying in danger
Margot Quinn
my aunt just turned 62 and she got a spousal benefit that was like $200 more than her own benefit would have been. but she worked part time most of her life so her own benefit was pretty small.
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AaliyahAli
Thank you everyone for all the helpful responses! I've learned a lot about how the spousal benefit works. I think I'm going to go ahead and file now at 62 since we could use the extra income, even though it's reduced. One last question - do I need to bring anything special to prove my marriage when I apply?
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Henrietta Beasley
•For a spousal application, you'll need: 1. Your marriage certificate 2. Both your Social Security numbers 3. Your birth certificate (original or certified copy) 4. Your most recent W-2 or tax return 5. Bank account information for direct deposit If you've been married before, you may also need divorce decrees. It's always best to bring too much documentation rather than too little. You can apply online, but I recommend calling or visiting an office since this involves spousal benefits.
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