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.

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?

my sister went thru this last yr. don't forget hes still eligible for the lump sum death benefit when u pass away even with GPO. not much but its something.

One final point that might help others in similar situations: If your husband had enough Social Security-covered employment (40 quarters/10 years), he would be exempt from the WEP (Windfall Elimination Provision) that could otherwise reduce his own benefit. But GPO still applies to spousal benefits regardless of quarters of coverage. The distinction between WEP (affects your own benefit) and GPO (affects spousal/survivor benefits) confuses many people. And unfortunately, there's been legislation proposed to reform these provisions for years but nothing has passed yet.

My situation was different but same question basically. I started SS at 62 and kept working and they calculated based on my currnt year income. They made me give a estimate when i filed. Then every January they send this form asking about next years income estimate. Its annoying but better than owing them money later!!! They retroactivly take money if u mess up!!

Thanks everyone for the helpful information! I'm going to carefully track my earnings next year and make sure to give SSA a realistic estimate. I might try that Claimyr service too since I really need to talk to someone directly about my specific situation. I appreciate all your advice and hearing about your experiences!

just wondering does her ss checks still get deposited while shes traveling? my aunt went to philippines for 3 months and had problems with her bank

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I've checked mom's Medigap Plan F policy and confirmed it does include the foreign travel emergency coverage ($250 deductible, 80% coverage up to $50,000 lifetime). Based on your advice, I'm also getting her a supplemental travel medical policy for peace of mind. Found one that specifically coordinates with Medicare/Medigap and includes medical evacuation coverage. Mom's really excited about her trip now that we have the insurance figured out. I appreciate all the personal experiences shared - it really helped us make an informed decision!

Don't get too excited about the Fairness Act. They've been trying to pass this for TWENTY YEARS with no success! Congress doesn't care about retired teachers or police officers. All talk, no action. I'll believe it when I see it.

Thank you all for the incredibly helpful responses! This gives me much better clarity on how to advise my client. To summarize what I've learned: 1. Yes, deemed filing actually works in her favor here - she's already technically applied for ex-spousal benefits 2. If GPO is repealed, SSA would recalculate and pay her the higher amount 3. She should be prepared to contact SSA when/if legislation passes to ensure her case is reviewed 4. Implementation could take months even after passage 5. There's a good chance we'll see some modification rather than full repeal This has been extremely valuable - much appreciated!