Are You Missing Out on a Higher Social Security Benefit?

June 2, 2025

Many people don’t realize they may be eligible to switch to a higher Social Security benefit—and the Social Security Administration (SSA) often doesn’t tell them.

Under SSA rules, if you qualify for a different benefit (like a spousal or survivor benefit) that’s higher than what you’re receiving now, you may be able to switch. But timing and strategy matter.

Why the SSA Might Not Tell You

SSA focuses on paying the highest benefit right now, not over your lifetime. In some cases, their advice could unintentionally reduce your total benefits.

For example, one advisor planned to take a divorced-spouse survivor benefit at 67 and switch to her own (larger) retirement benefit at 70. But SSA sent her a letter recommending she switch early—missing the point of the delay strategy. Luckily, she knew better and stuck to the plan.

A Smart Strategy: Mike and Mary

Here’s how a couple might maximize benefits:

  • Mary files for her own benefit at full retirement age.
  • Mike waits until 70 to file and receive the maximum amount.
  • Mary then applies for a spousal add-on—an increase based on Mike’s benefit.
  • If Mike dies first, Mary may become eligible for a higher survivor benefit.

Each step requires separate filings—and awareness. If you don’t know to ask, you might leave money on the table.

Hidden Benefits: A Real-Life Boost

One woman receiving $700/month didn’t realize she could file on her ex-husband’s record. With help, she gained an extra $400/month. Later, when her ex passed away, her benefit rose to $2,200/month.

Other Opportunities to Switch

  • Spousal add-on after your spouse files
  • Survivor benefits if a current or former spouse has died
  • Switching to your own higher benefit at age 70
  • Benefits for dependent children
  • Suspending benefits at full retirement age to earn delayed credits

Talk to an Expert

The SSA won’t always guide you through these options. To be sure you’re not missing out, speak with a financial advisor or call SSA at 800-772-1213.

At Omni 360 Wealth, we help clients make smart decisions about Social Security and retirement.



Schedule your free Exploratory phone call

Click here to see how we
can be of assistance.

Careers/Open Positions

Explore all available job
listings and become a part of an amazing team.

Payment Portal
for Tax and Accounting invoice

This link offers a secure, quick way to complete your payment with Omni360 Advisors LLC.

Our Social Media

Connect with us on Social Media using the following buttons:

Visit our Podcasts

Listen in, Join the Conversation!

Recent Posts

OBBB 2025 Playbook: A Business Owner’s Guide to the New Tax Law

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act spans more than 800 pages and rewrites entire sections of the Internal Revenue Code, from individual rates to international sourcing ...

<p>The post OBBB 2025 Playbook: A Business Owner’s Guide to the New Tax Law first appeared on Integrated Tax Planning, Legal Planning & Financial Planning.</p>

Estate Planning for the Middle Class: Why It Matters Even If You’re Below the Tax Threshold

Think estate planning is only for the ultra-wealthy? Discover why the middle class still needs wills, trusts, and POAs—even if you’re under the estate tax exemption in 2025. With the federal estate tax exemption set at $13.99 million per individual in 2025, many families assume estate planning is only relevant to the ultra-wealthy. ...

<p>The post Estate Planning for the Middle Class: Why It Matters Even If You’re Below the Tax Threshold first appeared on Integrated Tax Planning, Legal Planning & Financial Planning.</p>

The Great Wealth Transfer is Here: What It Means for Your Family and Legacy

Explore the implications of the $84.4 trillion wealth transfer from baby boomers to heirs, and learn how to prepare your family and legacy for this unprecedented shift. Understanding the Scale of the Transfer The magnitude of this wealth transfer is unprecedented. Baby boomers alone are set to account for $53 ...

<p>The post The Great Wealth Transfer is Here: What It Means for Your Family and Legacy first appeared on Integrated Tax Planning, Legal Planning & Financial Planning.</p>