I turn 66 in February, 2018, and am still working full time. I don't plan on signing up for social security until I turn 70. My husband passed away in 2004. My question is whether I can start receiving his social security benefits when I turn 66 until I claim my own at age 70. I intend to continue working. I was told by Social Security that I make too much money and cannot claim his benefits if I am working, only if I retire. Is this correct? Thanks so much!

Hi,

Yes, you can. There is no limit on your earnings once you reach your full retirement age of 66. And, unless you will earn more than roughly $44,800 in January next year, you could probably start receiving benefits effective with January rather than February of 2018 (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/whileworking2.html). Assuming that your age 70 retirement rate would be higher than your unreduced widow's rate, that would likely be your best strategy unless your 2017 earnings would be low enough to allow you to start receiving widow's benefits even before January. The maximization software available on this website can help you determine your optimal filing strategy.

Best, Jerry