SoReadyToRetire
Recycles dryer sheets
Hi. My sister lost her husband to a sudden heart attack 9 years ago. He was self-employed for many years (owned a commercial/residential cleaning company).
I don't know much about what he contributed to SS over his lifetime (died at 58).
But my sister turns 60 this month and I understand can start claiming part of his SS benefits as his widow.
She still works full time at a stressful job for $40K/year (has 15+ years left on mortgage).
Anyone have any experience with taking a spouse's benefits vs. waiting for their own? I'm hoping she can start getting what she's due under his benefits, then switch to her own at 62 if her benefit is higher than his.
But also wondering if she can continue working full time at her job while she's taking his SS benefit.
I know she can call them and ask, but I like the thought of getting real-world advice here too, so we have a better idea of what questions to ask when she calls SS to sign up. Thank you!
I don't know much about what he contributed to SS over his lifetime (died at 58).
But my sister turns 60 this month and I understand can start claiming part of his SS benefits as his widow.
She still works full time at a stressful job for $40K/year (has 15+ years left on mortgage).
Anyone have any experience with taking a spouse's benefits vs. waiting for their own? I'm hoping she can start getting what she's due under his benefits, then switch to her own at 62 if her benefit is higher than his.
But also wondering if she can continue working full time at her job while she's taking his SS benefit.
I know she can call them and ask, but I like the thought of getting real-world advice here too, so we have a better idea of what questions to ask when she calls SS to sign up. Thank you!