Ask Larry

Will My Wife Receive A Survivor Benefit If I Die Before I Start Drawing Benefits?

As a 67 yr old male I filed and suspended. My 66 yr old wife is receiving spousal benefit. If I die prior to beginning to collect benefits, will my wife receive a survivor benefit. Will her total amount be 100% of what my amount would be at time of death, or would it be amount it would have been at FRA? Thank you!

Hi,

Yes, in the event of your death your wife's spousal benefits would convert to widow's benefits. Her benefit rate would be the full amount you would have been eligible for had you started drawing your benefits in the month of your death, inclusive of the delayed retirement credits that you had accrued up to that time.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Dec 29 2016 - 5:00pm
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