social security income

Hi Mary, I looked on the SSA web site and found an answer that looks like it applies to your situation - it looks like your benefit depends on whether you are claiming just your own or whether you spouse has also claimed his benefit. It seems to say that you can only get your reduced benefit based on your SS benefit before your spouse claims their benefit, however once they claim their benefit then you may be eligible to get a higher benefit based on their earnings. Since you have a complex situation you should call the SS office and discuss your situation before making any decisions. Copy and paste this link into your browser: http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/cgi-bin/ssa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=309