Social Security

By Kemp Baratier

April 11, 2008 04:00 am

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Question: If both my spouse and I are titled to Social Security benefits, will we each get our own full retirement amounts, or is there a reduction?

Answer: When each member of a married couple works and earns enough credits to be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits, their lifetime earnings are calculated independently to determine their Social Security benefit amounts. Each of you will receive a monthly benefit amount based on your own individual earnings; there is no "marriage penalty." In fact, it's quite the opposite, because if one member of a couple earns lower wages or didn't earn enough Social Security credits to be insured for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse based on the higher-earner's record. For more information, visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Q: I've reached my full retirement age, but I don't feel like retiring. If I decide to hold off for several more years, will my Social Security retirement benefit increase?

A: Yes. If you decide to delay your retirement benefits until after your full retirement age, your benefit will be increased by a certain percentage each year "" up to a total of 8 percent. These increases, called delayed retirement credits, will be added in automatically from the time you reach full retirement age until the time you begin taking benefits or reach age 70, whichever comes first. To help you determine how much your benefit would increase, use our calculator at www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/quickcalc/early�late.html.

Q: I'll turn 65 years old later this year. When should I apply for my Medicare card?

A: Generally, we advise people to file for Medicare benefits 3 months before age 65. If you are already receiving Social Security, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B without an additional application. However, because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you have the option of turning it down. You will receive a Medicare card about two months before age 65.

If you would like to file for Medicare only, you can apply by calling (800) 772-1213. Our representatives there can make an appointment for you at any convenient Social Security office and advise you what to bring with you. To learn more about the Medicare program, read our electronic publication at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10043.html.

For additional information on these topics and more, call us at (800) 772-1213 or 433-0171.

Kemp Baratier is district manager for the Social Security Administration in Oneonta.