Hi - in a divorce situation, 10+ years of marriage, the ex-husband has passed on, could the surviving ex-spouse file for deceased husband's benefit, 50% at FRA, and allow her own benefit to grow, DRC, and then switch to that if larger at age 70? Thank you

Hi. Yes, at least potentially. Assuming that the surviving ex-spouse meets the requirements for survivor benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.04/handbook-0403.html), he or she could actually claim survivor benefits as early as age 60, or age 50 if they're disabled, and wait until age 70 to claim their own benefits. However, the Social Security earnings test would apply until the survivor reaches full retirement age (FRA).

The best filing strategy for someone in this situation depends on their expected earnings, and the benefit rates involved. Our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) could help such a person determine their optimal filing strategy for maximizing their benefits.

Best, Jerry