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Experts at Maximize My Social Security have answered more than 10,000 questions about Social Security over many years. Search for your questions and answers here.
Can I File For Widow's Benefits At Age 61 And Switch To My Own Record At Full Retirement Age?
I am 61. I am thinking about claiming my survivor benefit from my late husband at 65. Can I then switch to my full benefit when I turn 66 and 4 months?
Hi,
Potentially, yes. However, it sounds like your best strategy is likely one of the following:
1) File for reduced widow's benefits now or as soon as your earnings will permit benefits to be paid, then switch to your own record at age 70; or,
2) File for reduced retirement benefits at age 62 or as soon as your earnings will permit benefits to be paid, then file for unreduced widow's benefits at full retirement age.
The maximization software available on this website can help you determine which of the above filing strategies is best in your case, as well as when to apply for each type of benefit.
Best, Jerry
Category:
Posted:
July 7, 2017