How Will Law Changes Impact Social Security Spousal Benefits?

A federal budget bill has eliminated loopholes that completely change how Social Security spousal benefits work. A couple of the changes involve a process known as deemed filing.

What Is Deemed Filing?

Prior to the law changes, if those eligible for Social Security spousal benefits and retirement benefits were not full retirement age, they were required to apply for both and would receive whichever one offered the higher payout. This process was called deemed filing, because applicants were “deemed” to have applied for both Social Security retirement and spousal benefits.

How Have Social Security Spousal Benefits Changed?

Under the new law, deemed filing is no longer an option. In addition, married individuals can no longer apply for Social Security at full retirement age or older and then suspend their retirement benefits so that their spouse can collect spousal benefits. The new rules do not allow you to collect a spousal payment and a retirement payment at different points in time.

Have New Laws Changed How Social Security Disability Insurance Works?

We recently covered how law changes have impacted Social Security Disability insurance in a blog post. To learn more about SSDI, including what to do if your Social Security Disability benefits are denied, watch the video below and keep following our blog.

Categories

    I didn't think there was a caring professional considerate attorney firm on the planet, but Troutman & Troutman proved me wrong. From the receptionist to the legal assistance to the attorney and more they were exceptional people.

    - Robert S.

    They did a fantastic job getting everything gathered up and getting the trial done as quickly as possible. Anytime I had a question they were patient and help me understand what was going on. Especially Christy and Charlie were great.

    - Michael M.

    Steve Troutman was able to get my short-term and long-term disability for me. Then Erin another lawyer for their firm got my Social security disability for me. Great people.

    - Billy S.

    Mr. Troutman walked me through the entire process. Heather was available each time I called, answered all my crazy questions, and helped me fill out forms along the way. I was never treated like I was wasting time.

    - Julia C.

    Erin and Keith were fabulous! They were compassionate, helpful, and very responsive! They made the process very smooth and painless every step of the way.

    - Valerie W.
/

We Are Here to Help 

Free & Confidential Consultations
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.