I am a divorced for many years single person with some health issues. I cannot afford to be out of work in order to apply for disability and I am 64 years old born in July 1956. I was married for almost 11 years and am wondering if I can take the spousal benefit and leave my benefit until I am 70. I am still working but it is getting more difficult to get up every day and drive into another state to work. I am trying to find another job closer to home but so far no luck. I am just wondering what is my best course. My exhusband also passed in 2006. I have been trying to read your book but am becoming confused with some much information. Any assistance would be helpful. Thank you. Sincerely, Diane

Hi Diane. Yes, since your ex-husband is deceased you could potentially claim survivor benefits now while letting your own Social Security retirement benefits grow until age 70. However, if you claim benefits prior to your full retirement age (FRA) your benefits could be subject to full or partial withholding depending on how much you earn (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/whileworking.html).

If your own Social Security retirement benefit rate at age 70 would be higher than your unreduced survivor rate, then your best filing strategy would likely be to claim your survivor benefits as soon as your earnings would allow even partial benefits to be paid, and then claim your own benefits at age 70. Our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) could help you sort out your options so that you can be sure to choose the best possible filing strategy to maximize your benefits.

Best, Jerry