I hope you can answer a question about Social Security Benefits.

I was the higher wage earner by about 2 to 1.
My wife, Rose is now 63.5 (BD 12/1954) years old and I just turned 67 (BD 05/1951) in May 2018.
When I run a Social Security Strategy, depending on the age variables used, one results in Rose filing
now for her benefits and I file a Restricted application for spousal benefits on her account and do not
apply for the benefit on my account until I turn 70 in 2021.

In using this strategy, as Rose steps to my benefit amount upon my death, will Rose step up tp my full
benefit amount even though she had filed early for her benefit?

Thank you for your time.
With Regards,
Dave

Hi Dave,

Yes, widow's benefits are calculated independently of any retirement or spousal benefits that the widow previously received. If a widow is at least full retirement age (FRA) when she starts drawing widow's benefits, her widow's rate is unreduced even if she was previously drawing reduced retirement or spousal benefits.

For example, say Jane files for reduced retirement benefits at age 62 and receives $700 based on her full retirement age rate of $1000. If Jane's husband files for his benefits at age 70 and receives a benefit rate of $2000 and then dies after Jane has reached her FRA, Jane would be eligible for a combined benefit rate equal to her husband's full amount of $2000. Technically, Jane would continue to be paid her own benefit of $700 plus $1300 as a widow, but the total would be equal to 100% of her husband's full rate.

Best, Jerry