Jerry, you were kind enough to answer my question a couple months ago, a query wondering if my social security benefits would be affected because I receive a pension as a widow based on my husband's work. As I get ready to apply, reading of the GOP and WEP has me extremely nervous. Can you shed light on this confusing topic?

Hi,

I'm sorry, but I answer a lot of questions on a daily basis and I can't recall your previous question nor the answer that I gave you. However, if the only pension other than Social Security that you receive is a survivor pension based on your husband's work, it won't affect any type of Social Security benefits for which you may qualify. For more information on the WEP and GPO provisions, you may want to peruse the following publications on Social Security's website: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10045.pdf & https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10007.pdf.

Please also be aware that the maximization software available on this website is fully programmed to handle cases involving both WEP and/or GPO, so you may want to consider using the software to help you determine your best strategy with regard to Social Security benefits.

Best, Jerry