Social Security for Widows and Widowers: A Guide That Should Have Come With Your Marriage License
Confused by Social Security?
This is the most emotionally challenging part of Social Security planning—and the most financially important. When one spouse passes away, everything changes.
How Survivor Benefits Work
A surviving spouse receives the higher of the two benefits. The smaller check disappears. This is why the higher earner’s filing age matters so much.
Widows Can File Earlier Than You Think
Widows and widowers can file as early as age 60 (or 50 if disabled). But filing early reduces the survivor benefit.
If you are a widow, widower, or married couple planning ahead…
Let’s review your survivor options.
The Mistake Most Survivors Make
They assume they can’t switch between benefits. But in many cases, survivors can take one benefit early and switch to the other later. This sequencing can add tens of thousands of dollars in lifetime income.
About Author
Ray R. Harris
Ray R. Harris, RSSA®, partners with tax and legal professionals to provide specialized Social Security claiming analysis for high-net-worth clients aged 58–70. A former executive with an MBA and background in Finance, Ray mitigates liability for his partners by ensuring their clients optimize spousal benefits, tax efficiency, and lifetime income.
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