Ask Larry

Will I Get My Husband's Benefit Rate If He Dies Before Me?

My husband retired a few yrs after full retirement age and receives 1170/mo SS. He is 15 yrs older than me. I started receiving SS in June at age 62 in amount of 1122/mo. If he dies will I automatically start receiving 1170/mo?

Hi,

If you're at least age 66 at the time he dies, then yes your total benefit amount would go up to his full rate. If he died before then, you would likely be best off to wait until age 66 to file for widow's benefits.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Dec 25 2016 - 8:00am
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