Hi. I am 40 and currently receiving Survivor benefits for my 3 young children and I. Once the children age out, I understand the benefits will end. So, where does that leave me for retirement? Can I still get my late husband's retirement benefits at 65 or will I not receive them since I already collected due to his death and caring for our children. He was the sole provider for our family. Thank you!

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

It sounds like you will qualify for widow's benefits when reach age 60 (or age 50 if you are disabled), but your benefit rate will be reduced for age if you start drawing those benefits before your full retirement age (FRA). The fact that you are receiving mother's benefits now will have no adverse effect on your future widow's benefits.

If you are also insured for Social Security benefits on your own record you would have several potential filing options, such as filing for reduced retirement benefits at age 62 and then filing for unreduced widow's benefits at FRA. In some cases, though, it's better to apply for reduced widow's benefits first and then switch to your own retirement benefits at age 70. Our software can help you determine your best overall filing strategy once you get closer to retirement age.

Best, Jerry