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Just wondering but do u have to pay tax on the backpay if they owe you? my mom got a lump sum and it messed up her taxes that yr
I want to thank everyone for your helpful responses. I was able to get through to SSA (used that Claimyr service that someone suggested - worked great) and found out my own benefit would actually be about $370 more per month than my widow's benefit! They're processing the change now and said I'll get 6 months of backpay. I'm disappointed I missed out on years of higher payments, but I'm grateful for the increase going forward. For anyone else in a similar situation, definitely check if you're receiving the highest benefit you're entitled to!
my daughter got survivors benefits when she was 14 after her dad died they were really helpful it paid for most of her expenses until she graduated make sure you go in person and bring all the documents they ask for or they'll make you come back again
Thanks everyone for the helpful advice. I used the Claimyr service mentioned above and actually got through to schedule an appointment for next week! I've gathered all the documents mentioned and will be setting up a separate account for tracking her benefit funds. One last question - will these benefits affect her eligibility for college financial aid? She's planning to apply to colleges next year.
Good news on getting an appointment! Regarding financial aid, Social Security benefits are considered income for FAFSA purposes, so yes, they will be counted in financial aid calculations. However, this income is reported on the FAFSA and is treated differently than other assets. Make sure to work with her high school counselor next year when filling out financial aid forms, as there are sometimes special considerations for students receiving survivor benefits.
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?
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.
Dylan Mitchell
if your husbands abusive why wait til december? the 2 year mark only matters for certain benefits but not worth staying in danger
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Fatima Al-Suwaidi
It's complicated. Without income of my own and with my health issues, I don't have many options. I'm trying to understand what benefits I might qualify for if I leave versus what I might lose by leaving before certain time thresholds. It's literally about survival at this point.
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