Social Security changes
Among the changes for 2016 are that retired couples will no longer be able to maximize payments via the “file and suspend” strategy, that allows spouses to coordinate their benefits resulting in an increase in the overall amount of money they can receive from Social Security. Now, if a worker suspends their benefits, then all benefits are suspended. This applies to spouses, ex-spouses, and children and will take effect on May 1.
If you are at least 66 years old or you will be turning 66 by April 30, 2016, you could still be able to make use of the old file-and-suspend system, as long as you file before the deadline.
Every year you wait to claim Social Security after you reach full retirement age, the benefit increases by about 8% per year up to the age of 70. The widow’s benefit will not be changing.
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