My girlfriend is 62. Can she claim her late husband’s full Social Security benefit — or does she have to wait?
“Her husband passed away 10 years ago. They had been married for more than 20 years.”
A widow's eligibility for Social Security benefits is based on her marriage duration and her husband's earnings record. Given that the couple was married for over 20 years, the widow in question is likely eligible for survivor benefits. However, the specific benefit amount she can claim depends on various factors, including her own earnings history and the age at which she starts receiving benefits.
The fact that her husband passed away 10 years ago is relevant, as it may impact her benefit amount. If she had remarried after his passing, her new husband's earnings record could be considered for benefits instead. However, since there's no mention of her remarrying, her late husband's earnings record remains the relevant one. It's also worth noting that Social Security benefits are generally available to widows starting at age 60, with the full benefit available at her full retirement age, which depends on her birth year.
To determine the best course of action, the widow should review her own earnings history and compare it to her late husband's. If his benefit amount is higher, she may want to claim the survivor benefit. What's crucial to watch next is how her current age, 62, affects her benefit amount. If she starts claiming now, her benefits will be reduced compared to waiting until her full retirement age. She should consider consulting with a financial advisor or Social Security expert to determine the optimal time to start receiving her benefits.
Originally reported by marketwatch.com. Expo-News adds analysis for finance & markets readers.