Ask Larry

Do You See Any Problems With My Plan?

3 years ago my spouse died unexpectedly at 70 and I started taking his Social Security. I was 60 and had taken early retirement. My plan is to stop his and take my own larger benefit at 66. Do you see any problems?

Thanks

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

The only problem I see with your plan is that you would likely be better off to wait until age 70 to file on your own record. That way your own retirement rate will grow by 8% per year from full retirement age until age 70, even though you are still drawing your widow's benefits during that time.

You may want to strongly consider using the maximization software on this site to do the math and compare your options.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Oct 24 2017 - 10:11am
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