Full question: I was married for 32 years and my wife passed away in 2005 at age 57. I started my Social Security benefits at age 62. Am I eligible for a higher monthly income as a widower even after all these years?

Hi there,

If your survivor (widower) benefit exceeds the amount of your retirement benefit, you are eligible for the higher benefit.

If you are eligible to receive both retirement benefits and survivor benefits, you can file for one early, even if it is the smaller amount, and then switch later to the higher one.

Please note that survivor benefits can be collected at age 60 if needed and reach their maximum amount at FRA but retirement benefits increase up until age 70. For personalized support, you can work with an RSSA here.

Best of luck,
Martha

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