Seven Secrets Boost your Social Security – You won’t Believe First and Second

Social Security benefits are a financial lifeline for nearly 69 million Americans, particularly retirees and senior citizens. Yet, with the average benefit hovering just under $2,000 per month, many recipients find it challenging to cover all living expenses on Social Security alone. The good news? There are several little-known strategies that can help you maximize your Social Security income, reduce taxes, and boost your overall retirement security.

Whether you’re still working, already retired, or somewhere in between, here are seven Social Security secrets you may not know—but should.

1. You May Be Eligible for Benefits from a Divorced Spouse

One of the most surprising Social Security rules is that if you were married for at least 10 years, you can claim spousal benefits on your ex-spouse’s record—even after divorce.

This can amount to up to 50% of your ex’s full retirement benefit. To qualify, you must be:

• Currently unmarried
• At least 62 years old
• Your own benefit must be less than your ex-spouse’s

This doesn’t reduce your ex’s benefits and can be a major financial advantage if your earnings history is lower.

2. You Can Undo Your Social Security Claim—But Only Once

If you claimed your benefits early (say, at age 62) but later realize you should have waited, you can withdraw your application within 12 months of your first payment.

But there’s a catch:
You must repay every dollar you and your family members received, including any spousal or child benefits. After doing so, you can reapply later and lock in higher monthly payments.

This one-time “do-over” is especially useful if your financial situation changes or you return to work.

3. Your Children May Qualify for Survivor Benefits

If you pass away and have dependent children under age 18, they may be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits.

Each child could receive up to 75% of your basic benefit amount. This can make a big difference for families who rely on a deceased parent’s income.

4. You Can Work and Collect—With Limits

You don’t have to stop working to claim benefits, but if you’re under Full Retirement Age (FRA) and earn more than $23,400 in 2025, your benefits may be partially reduced.

Age	Annual Earnings Limit (2025)	Reduction
Under FRA	$23,400	$1 deducted for every $2 earned over the limit
Year You Reach FRA	$62,280	$1 deducted for every $3 earned (until birthday)
After FRA	No Limit	No reduction

Once you reach FRA, benefits are no longer withheld regardless of how much you earn.

5. Delaying After Full Retirement Age Doesn’t Always Help

While delaying your claim until age 70 increases your benefits, once you reach your Full Retirement Age (typically 66–67 depending on your birth year), the value of waiting beyond that point ends at age 70.

Waiting past 70 doesn’t add any more benefit and simply delays the income you could be receiving.

6. Roth IRA Withdrawals Don’t Affect Social Security Taxes

Withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts like traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, or pensions can increase your taxable income—which may push a portion of your Social Security benefits into the taxable range.

However, Roth IRA withdrawals are not counted as income for Social Security tax calculations, making them a tax-efficient way to supplement your benefits.

7. Online SSA Calculators Don’t Tell the Whole Story

The Social Security Administration’s online calculator gives a basic estimate—but it often excludes factors like:

• Spousal benefits
• Divorce-related entitlements
• Survivor benefits
• File-and-suspend strategies

To get a more comprehensive view, consider using advanced planning tools or consulting with a qualified financial advisor who specializes in Social Security planning.

Understanding these lesser-known Social Security strategies can help you stretch every dollar in retirement. But don’t make the mistake of relying solely on Social Security as your primary income. Instead, build a diversified income plan that includes:

• Personal savings
• Tax-advantaged accounts (Roth IRAs, 401(k)s)
• Passive investment income
• Pensions (if applicable)

Planning ahead, staying informed, and making strategic decisions based on your individual circumstances are the keys to a comfortable and financially secure retirement.

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