In a bit of a hard spot here. Partner is older, I am only working part-time to care for him. Retirement concern?
My partner (we have been together 13 years, not married, living in Ohio) was deemed fully disabled at age 62, he is 65 now. He had a decent work history so he receives enough from monthly disability payments to get by. I am younger than him by 20 years. I have work history but not very high paying jobs. I am concerned for my retirement as I understand Social Security takes the highest earning 35 years to calculate retirement payment. I've been working part-time, earning roughly $900/month as I take care of him with home care, doctor's appointments, etc. I don't mind doing it at all but I am worried that these years of me being "idle" are creating a mess for me when I go to draw social security.
I receive Medicaid healthcare insurance because of my earnings, and have student loan debt. Would it be wise for my partner and I to get married, so I at least would be entitled to his survivor benefits when I am of age? Would I receive the same amount that he is currently receiving, should he pass before me? If we were to get married, would filing jointly protect my medicaid healthcare insurance? Would my income cause any damage/deduction to his social security payments? I am very confused how this all works - seeking information from you knowledgeable people..