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Jan

16

Return to work or not

Filed Under Social Security 

Question:

Hi, i have a question. My mother is 62 and has been collecting widowers benefits. In July of 2007 she went out of work on medical disability for treatment of breast cancer. We are deciding if she should return to work or not. How would her widowers benefits be affected if she does not return to work at this young age?

Answer:

Your mother is receiving widows benefits and is subject to the earnings limit. If she is earning under the $13,000 allowed by Social  Security, she is getting her checks monthly.  Her work is not counted if it is under that amount. Otherwise Social Security is holding $1 for every $2 over that amount. If she cannot return to work because of her disability she should file for disability on her own earnings. She could get a higher benefit amount and be eligible for Medicare after a two year waiting period. Widows should start checking their own benefit at age 62 to see if it is more beneficial to file on their own earnings.

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