Ask Larry

Can I Suspend My Own Social Security Benefits And Collect Survivor Benefits Instead?

I am currently on social security disability (SSDI). When I turn 66.5 -- I will no longer be entitles to SSDI as the payments would convert into my regular social security at full retirement age. I am also entitled to survivor's social security from my deceased wife. Can I suspend my social security payments at 66.5 until 70 and then start receiving my survivor social security benefits until I am 70. Then at 70 switch to my regular social security payments which would be substantially higher than the ones that I would have received at full retirement age. Thank you

Hi. No. Based on the 2015 Social Security amendments, if you voluntarily suspend your Social Security retirement benefits then you can't be paid any other type of Social Security benefits while your retirement benefits are suspended (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/claiming.html).

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Apr 21 2022 - 12:44pm
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