The Retirement and IRA Show Social Security, HSA, and Annuities: Q&A #2603
Jan 17, 2026
Listeners dive into the intricacies of Social Security with questions on survivor benefits and divorce rules. A fascinating PSA reveals how online filings can trigger spousal benefit notifications. Discussions also cover HSA contribution limits, specifically for spouses under ACA plans, while exploring the merits of annuities versus Treasury bonds. The hosts clarify the benefits of whole retirement planning and the trade-offs in income potential between annuities and government securities, leaving listeners armed with valuable financial insights.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Claim Survivor Now, Delay Your Own
- Consider claiming a reduced survivor benefit now and delay your own higher benefit to age 70 to maximize lifetime Social Security income.
- Be aware the retirement earnings test will withhold $1 for every $2 earned above $24,480 (2026) if you claim before full retirement age.
10-Year Rule For Divorced-Spouse Benefits
- If divorced, you must have been married at least 10 years to qualify for divorced-spouse or survivor benefits.
- Delay the legal divorce until the 10-year mark if Social Security benefits materially matter to the lower-earning spouse.
Spouse Notified Automatically After Online Filing
- A Michigan listener filed online and Social Security proactively mailed his spouse a spousal-eligibility notice.
- They completed a 15-minute verification phone appointment without presenting a marriage certificate and received retroactive benefit start.