Just wanted to add one more thing that I learned the hard way - if you're getting paid in cash for any of your landscaping work, make sure you keep a detailed log of dates and amounts. SSA can ask for proof of earnings, and cash payments are harder to document after the fact. I recommend asking your nephew for some kind of written record (even just a simple receipt or note) each time you get paid, especially if it's not through regular payroll. Also, since you mentioned you're working about 20 hours a week, try to estimate what that might mean for your monthly earnings so you can plan ahead. At minimum wage rates in most states, 20 hours a week would keep you well under the $1,860 monthly limit, but landscaping can pay more, and you mentioned having some months with extra jobs. Better to know in advance if you might hit the limit rather than find out after the fact! The earnings limit really isn't as scary as it seems once you understand it, especially knowing that any withheld benefits come back to you later. You're being smart by asking these questions upfront!

As a newcomer to this community, I'm really impressed by how helpful and detailed everyone's responses have been! I'm 61 and will be eligible for Social Security next year, so I'm trying to learn as much as possible before making any decisions. Reading through this thread has been incredibly educational - I had no idea about the monthly vs. annual earnings test distinction for the first year, or that withheld benefits get credited back at full retirement age. The practical advice about documentation, especially for family business arrangements, is so valuable. One question that comes to mind after reading all these responses: Emily, have you considered reaching out to your local Social Security office in person rather than trying to call? I've heard from some friends that while the phone lines are terrible, sometimes you can get better help by actually going in, especially for complex situations like yours where you started mid-year. It might be worth the trip to get a clear understanding of your specific situation directly from an SSA representative. Thank you all for creating such a welcoming and informative community - I'm already learning so much just from lurking and reading!

This is such an important topic to plan for, and I'm glad you're thinking ahead for your family's security. Based on what others have shared, it sounds like marriage would significantly improve your partner's financial situation if something happens to you. One thing I'd add - since you mentioned the SSA website is confusing (and it really is!), you might want to schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office to discuss your specific situation. They can walk you through the exact benefit amounts and timing based on your actual earnings record. You can also ask about other planning strategies, like whether there are any advantages to when you might get married relative to benefit calculations. Also, don't forget to consider other estate planning beyond just Social Security - life insurance, wills, etc. An estate planning attorney could help ensure your son and partner are fully protected. Your local Area Agency on Aging might have free or low-cost legal clinics that could help with this. Wishing you and your family the best as you work through these important decisions!

For your SSA appointment, you'll want to bring your Social Security card, your son's birth certificate and Social Security card, and any documentation of your current benefits. If you decide to get married beforehand, bring the marriage certificate too. You can actually schedule appointments online at ssa.gov or call ahead - it's much better than just walking in. For estate planning, definitely update your will and consider life insurance if you don't have enough coverage. Since your son is only 5, you'll want to name a guardian and set up a trust if the life insurance payout is substantial. Many states have free legal aid societies that help with basic estate planning, or your local bar association might have referral services for affordable attorneys. One more tip - if you do get married soon, make sure to update your beneficiary information on any retirement accounts, life insurance policies, etc. Social Security is just one piece of the financial security puzzle for your family.

To clarify what's being discussed - there are two separate calculations happening: 1) The basic survivor benefit calculation, which is affected by when your husband died and when you claim, and 2) The GPO reduction, which is based on his non-covered pension. Both affect your final payment amount. Under the 2025 changes, you'll likely see a significant improvement because your husband had relatively few years of non-covered work compared to his SS-covered employment. Document everything carefully and consider working with a financial advisor who specializes in Social Security planning for government employees.

I'm so glad this discussion is happening! I'm in a very similar situation - my husband worked for the state for 8 years (no SS contributions) but had 25+ years paying into Social Security before and after. He passed away last year at 62 and I'm 54 now. Reading through these responses gives me hope that the 2025 changes will actually make a meaningful difference for people like us. The current GPO rules seem so unfair - penalizing survivors when their spouses paid into Social Security for the vast majority of their careers. Has anyone here actually gone through the process of getting their benefits recalculated once the new law takes effect? I'm wondering how proactive SSA will be about applying the new formula or if we'll need to specifically request it.

That makes sense, though it's disappointing. I've probably lost out on thousands already. I just hope they actually pass something soon - I've been hearing about GPO/WEP reform for years but nothing ever seems to happen. Thank you for all this helpful information!

I'm in a very similar situation and have been following this closely. One thing that might help while you're waiting - make sure you have all your documentation organized now. Get copies of your husband's DD-214 (military discharge), his Social Security earnings record, and your CSRS pension details. Also, I've found the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board website has some good resources explaining how military service affects federal retirement benefits. Your husband's dual FERS/military situation might actually work in your favor if the GPO is repealed, since his Social Security benefit calculation likely included his military service credit. The waiting is frustrating, but having everything ready will help you act quickly if/when the law changes. Hang in there!

When you apply, be very clear about your CSRS pension. They'll ask about government pensions not covered by Social Security. Bring documentation showing your CSRS pension amount. Be prepared to wait for processing - these GPO cases often take longer to calculate. Don't be surprised if they request additional information after your initial application. Based on what you've shared, there's a good chance you'll receive some survivor benefits, even after the GPO reduction. Your husband's 40+ years of substantial earnings means his benefit was likely significant enough that even after a $2,800 reduction, you may still receive a monthly payment worth pursuing.

That's great news that you got through to SSA! Looking forward to hearing how your appointment goes. For others reading this thread who might be in similar situations, this is a perfect example of why it's worth applying even when GPO seems discouraging. With a CSRS pension of $4,200/month and a husband who had 40+ years of substantial Social Security earnings, there's a real possibility of receiving meaningful survivor benefits after the GPO reduction. The key takeaways here are: 1) Apply as soon as possible (benefits only go back 6 months), 2) Don't wait until 70 since survivor benefits don't increase after FRA, and 3) Be persistent about getting through to SSA - services like Claimyr can help bypass the phone wait times. Good luck with your appointment!