I was born in 1954 and I am planning to take my SS benefit when I turn 70. I have recently retired. My wife was born in 1957 and she wishes to take her own SS benefit. She has retired also. Does her drawing of her own SS benefit early reduce her survival benefit in any way? Thanks for your help.

Hi. No. As long as your wife doesn't start drawing her survivor benefits prior to her full retirement age (FRA), the fact that she started drawing her own benefits early wouldn't affect her survivor rate. If your wife becomes entitled to widow's benefits at FRA or later, she would be paid the higher of her own benefit rate or your full benefit rate.

Best, Jerry