Both husband & wife receive SS-can wife give hers up and collect on husband's should he die first.?

Question

Since my husband's benefits are more than mine, should he die first could I give my benefits up and collect his?

Answer 1

It is my understanding the surviving spouse can take whichever is greater. Check with SS.

Answer 2

If your husband should die and his SS is more than yours, you will be able to collect a portion of his. Not trade one for another. The max you can collect is on the statement that everyone is supposed to receive every year. Their might some exceptions to this, you can ask them online at www.ssa.gov. The best and fastest way is to call your local office by calling 1-800-772-1213. Or you might be able to get that info also online. If may also may be in the phone book. By calling the local office you get service quickly. The 800# can be phone hell. I've been on SSD for 3 years after being denied and going through a 19 month appeal processs. I have a person at my local office that I'm on a first name basis with. I hope this helps you.

Answer 3

I think if he dies first you automatically get his benefits and your benefits go away. When my brother and I turned 18 my mother got a portion of the money that came to us through SS. So she gets my dad's if he goes first. Check with SS Administration for details.

Answer 4

I don't think you need to give anything up.
When my neighbors husband died she continued getting all of her retirement plus a certain percentage of what her husbands payments were. I think it's 50%, I helped her with the paperwork but it's been 2 years so that could have changed by now.

Answer 5

Yes, even though my parents had been divorced for years she was able to collect a higher rate from his when he died. I think in order to do that you have to have been married for 15 years.

Answer 6

I think you can because my mother worked but is getting my father's SS. Check with your HR person.

Answer 7

The destroy up letter, God's digital mail and definition of spouse and mom have been in simple terms too sturdy. the following day morning the 1st ingredient i may be doing ofcourse after brushing my teeth may be telling them to my pals! You deserve various stars! ok my character map isnt permitting me to repeat stars, so please regulate with those hearts! ??????????????????????????????????????... LOL God knows of what proportion thumbs down i gets for this one! besides, Cheers! :) Rudra

Answer 8

how about getting a job so I can save some money on taxes.

Answer 9

sure

Answer 10

I dunno about your question are you planning on foul play?