Social Security Widows Benefit
My husband of 41 years passed in Nov 2013. I was able to draw his SS beginning 2014 while I was still working. Currently, I receive $2,294.00 monthly from his SS. I keep hearing a larger number paid out. I have an on line SS account. While I can research this myself, I’m afraid there will be something that doesn’t add up and SS will make me take my SS benefits instead which may not be as much. I draw from TRS, SURS, and IMRF and I am able to keep my head above water yet if I had a major repair e.g. new roof, heating system, I couldn’t handle it. I have been to my local SS Office but it is a struggle to get information as they only give me the bare minimum of information. BTW I finally retired in 2025. I turned 74 in July 2026.
Please advise on which route to take. I am willing to pursue any avenue in order to GET WHAT I DESERVE! Thank you.
Terry Says
So first you need to understand that, as his widow, you are entitled to the LARGER of your benefit or HIS full retirement benefit — even if he died before he started collecting. BUT, your benefit on his account will be reduced because you started collecting YOUR SS before your own full retirement age (based on my calculations from your question).
So the one thing you must do is ASK SS whether — based on his Full Retirement Benefit — you are entitled to more than you are receiving right now.
And if you cant get them to give you an answer, spend $49 and get help with that here:
https://www.maximizemysocialsecurity.com/
