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Social Security Q&A: Should I Collect on My Own Record Before My Widow’s Benefit?

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Question: My deceased husband never took retirement and his insured amount is very much higher than mine. I will be 64 shortly and want to know if I file on my own (that being about $475) to supplement my income at the allowed yearly amount, will I be allowed to file at 66 on his and get my survivor benefit with no glitch when I am 66?

Answer: Yes, you should file immediately for your own retirement benefit, but not for your widow’s benefit. Wait until 66 (full retirement age) to collect your widow’s benefit, when it will start at its highest possible value.

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