Hi Larry & colleagues, My husband passed away ten years ago at age 53. I am currently 64 and will turn 65 this summer. I work full time at a modest wage and do not forsee retirement for quite a few years if my health cooperates. I was advised at my social security office to apply for my own ss benefits which I did two years ago. I have received four monthly payments each year beginning in Sept & ending in Dec. I was told I could earn a certain amount each year & then collect part of my benefit (if this met my financial needs). At 66 I will file for my husband's benefit at 100%. Is this still the best path for me to follow until next year? Thank you so much for your advice - I greatly appreciate it.
Sincerely, Janet

Hi Janet,

I'm sorry for your loss.

The answer to your question is yes, provided that your unreduced widow's rate is higher than your own retirement benefit rate. If it isn't, then you would likely have been better off to have claimed your widow's benefits first and switched to your own record at age 70. You may want to consider using our maximization software to verify your optimal course of action.

Best, Jerry