Ask Terry Questions Social Security

Social Security

By Terry Savage on April 13, 2026 | Social Security

Sunday, April 12th
Dear Terry, I am 78. My wife is 72. We were married in 2007. We both receive Social Security benefits. Me: $1350 per month. My wife: $400 per month. I was told my wife could apply to receive up to HALF of my benefit monthly now with no penalty to me and no effect on future benefits.. Is this true? How does she apply? Thank you. Love your Wednesdays on WGN,

Terry Says

Yes, it’s true. She is entitled to her benefit, or half of yours, whichever is larger.
Read this article on the SS website: https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/quickcalc/spouse.html

Then contact SS to have them adjust her benefits. (By the way, if you die first, she is entitled to your FULL benefit, since yours is larger than hers.)

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