My husband recently died at age 84, he was receiving benefits. I am 64 and currently working full time. Can I receive survivors benefits based on his work record and continue to work? thank you

Hi,

The answer to your question depends on how much you are earning as well as your potential benefit rate. There is an earnings test that applies until you reach full retirement age (FRA), which would cause you to lose $1 of benefits for each $2 that you earn in excess of $16,920 this year (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/whileworking2.html).

Your best filing 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 now or as soon as your earnings will permit benefits to be paid, then file for widow's benefits at full retirement age, or sooner if your husband received reduced retirement benefits.

The maximization software available on this website can help you determine which of these strategies is best in your case, as well as when to apply for each type of benefit.

Best, Jerry