I was born 12/21/1950 and began receiving SS this year (1/2017). My wife (born 4/8/1956) plans on receiving a reduced benefit in 2018, at 62. My question is: If I precede my wife in death, will she be eligible to receive my benefit, which is considerably higher?

Thanks, Ted

Hi,

The answer is yes, provided that your wife is at least full retirement age at the time of your death. She would not get both her own benefit amount and yours, though, just the higher of the two.

If you die before your wife reaches age 66, she could either apply for reduced widow's benefits at that time or wait until age 66 to start drawing your full rate.

Best, Jerry