I turn 65 this month. My husband died 5 months ago at the age of 67. He had not yet applied for SS. His Benefit was estimated at $1,423, and estimated to be $1,710 at age 70. Mine is $1,094, and estimated to be $1,627 at age 70.

I continue to work, making about $40K year. Is my best approach to go ahead and take my Benefit now, then revert to his at age 70 1/2? Do I need to delay until age 66?

Thanks.

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

Your potential widow's benefits won't get any higher if you wait past full retirement age to start drawing them. Based on the benefit rates you've quoted, it sounds like your best option may be to start drawing reduced widow's benefits effective with January 2018, and then switch to your own record at age 70. However, you should strongly consider using the maximization software available on this website in order to make sure that you choose the very best filing strategy.

Best, Jerry