My spouse was collecting Social security when he died in 2012. His monthly benefit at that time was$2425. If I begin receiving his benefit this year when i turn 64 will the COLA increases between then and now apply to my 82.5%?

Hi. I'm sorry for your loss. Yes, the Social Security cost of living increases that occurred since your husband's death would be added when calculating your survivor benefit rate. Your rate wouldn't necessarily be just 82.5% of your husband's primary insurance amount (PIA), though, unless he started drawing his benefits at age 62 or 63. Widows and widowers can be paid an unreduced rate of up to 100% of their deceased spouse's full benefit rate unless the deceased spouse collected reduced Social Security retirement benefits prior to their death (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.04/handbook-0407.html).

You may want to strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze the options available to you in order to determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry