When it comes to Social Security, there are a variety of claiming strategies and for the average person, it can be complicated. If you’re on Social Security Disability, have a public pension, or are a state employee, it’s even more complicated.
For savvy Americans, the debate comes down to whether it would be more advantageous to claim early or wait until they turn 70. If you’re married, a widow or widower, you have an array of claiming strategies to choose from.
If you or your spouse is thinking about claiming Social Security Disability benefits or has a public pension, it’s important to talk to a Dallas Social Security Disability attorney from our firm since you’ll need to plan ahead.
For the layperson, navigating Social Security benefits with a public pension can get muddy, and if it’s not handled correctly, valuable time can be wasted trying to straighten it out. Of course, the best strategies come down to the individual’s situation and circumstances.
Should you get Social Security early?
Married couples have several strategies to consider, especially if one of them is on disability. If the healthy spouse is already receiving Social Security retirement benefits, it could make more sense for the disabled spouse to receive a spousal benefit in lieu of disability if they are at least 62.
However, that will depend on the disabled spouse’s work record and their age, among other details. The healthy or disabled spouse also has the option to “file and suspend” at full retirement age, which maximizes the survivor benefit if that spouse dies first.
Once a disabled person reaches full retirement age, their Social Security Disability benefit converts to Social Security retirement benefits. While the amount doesn’t change, the label does.
Conversely, if Social Security Disability benefits are reduced due to public disability payments or because of workers’ compensation benefits, the total benefits received may actually increase once the disabled individual reaches full retirement age.
To discuss your claiming strategies, contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm.