Thank you all for this helpful info! I think I'm going to run some actual numbers based on what you've shared. It seems like I have three choices: 1. File at 62, take the permanent reduction AND deal with earnings test reductions 2. Keep working but reduce hours to stay under that $22,320 limit 3. Just wait until my FRA to avoid all these complications I'm leaning toward option 3 now that I understand better. One more question though - when my husband files at 70, does that mean I need to file something with SSA right away to establish myself as eligible for spousal benefits later? Or can I just wait until I reach FRA and then apply?

I'd like to add one more consideration that might help with your decision. Since you mentioned your husband is delaying until 70 to maximize his benefits, you should know that his higher benefit amount will also increase your potential spousal benefit. Spousal benefits are calculated as a percentage of his Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), not his actual benefit amount with delayed retirement credits. However, there's a strategy some couples use called "claim and invest." If you claim spousal benefits at 62 (even with the reductions), you could potentially invest those payments for the 5 years until your FRA. Depending on market performance, this might offset some of the permanent reduction - though this comes with investment risk. Also, regarding your work situation: the earnings test only applies until you reach FRA. Once you hit 67, you can earn any amount without benefit reductions. And as Omar mentioned, any benefits withheld due to the earnings test aren't lost forever - they increase your future monthly payments. Given your numbers ($950 own benefit vs $1,500 spousal at FRA), waiting until FRA for spousal benefits probably makes the most financial sense unless you have an immediate need for the income.

my cousin works for ssa and she says they have a special calculator for this exact situation but not everyone there knows how to use it. ask for the "mnth" calculation thats what its called i think

I went through a very similar situation when my husband passed away 5 years ago. The lack of clear information from SSA is unfortunately very common, but don't give up! Here's what finally worked for me: I made an in-person appointment at my local SSA office and brought a written list of specific questions. I asked them to print out my complete earnings record and my husband's earnings record, then requested they calculate both scenarios side by side. One thing that might help - when you call or visit, ask specifically for a "restricted application analysis" or "comparative benefit analysis." Sometimes using their technical terms gets you transferred to someone who actually knows how to run these calculations. Also, your SSA.gov account should show your estimated retirement benefits at different ages, but unfortunately it won't show survivor benefit estimates. You'll need to get those numbers directly from them. The good news is that once you have the actual numbers, the decision becomes much clearer. In my case, taking my reduced retirement first and switching to survivor benefits at my FRA was the right choice, but everyone's situation is different based on their respective work histories.

Thank you all for the helpful responses! I'm feeling much more clear about how this works now. To summarize what I've learned: 1. Taking my own retirement benefits at 65 has no impact on my future widow benefit percentage 2. If my husband passes away, the widow benefit I'd receive is based solely on my age at the time I apply for widow benefits 3. At my FRA (67) I'd get 100% of his benefit, at 65 I'd get about 92% 4. I can switch from my own benefit to widow benefits at any time if my husband passes away I'll definitely document my conversations with SSA from now on and might try that Claimyr service if I need to call them again. This has been so helpful - the SSA website just doesn't explain these nuances clearly!

I'm glad I found this thread! I'm in a similar situation but with a twist - my husband is also considering filing for his own retirement benefits early while staying on SSDI. Does anyone know if him switching from SSDI to regular retirement benefits would affect my potential widow benefits? I assume my widow benefit would be based on whatever he's receiving at the time he passes away, whether that's SSDI or retirement benefits. But I want to make sure before we make any decisions about his filing strategy.

WATCH OUT for taxes!!!! Many people don't realize that up to 85% of your SS benefits can be taxable depending on your other income. Make sure you understand how this works or you might get a nasty surprise next April!!

Jessica, based on everything you've shared, it sounds like filing now makes sense for your situation. You're already retired, comfortable with the reduced benefit amount, and currently drawing from savings to supplement your pension. The key factors working in your favor: 1) You have that 12-month withdrawal option as a safety net if you change your mind, 2) You're not planning to return to work so no earnings test concerns, and 3) You'd rather have the guaranteed income now than worry about potential future changes. Just make sure to factor in the tax implications that Bethany mentioned - with your $1,400 pension plus $2,275 in SS, you'll likely have some portion of your benefits taxed. But honestly, given that you're already dipping into retirement savings, getting that SS income flowing seems like the right call. Best of luck with whatever you decide!

Thank you all for the helpful information! I'm going to try contacting SSA this week to suspend my benefits before I start the new job next month. Sounds like suspension is definitely better than dealing with the earnings limit in my case since I'll be making well over the limit. And I like the idea of letting my benefit amount grow until FRA. Thanks again for all the advice!

Just wanted to add one more thing that might help - when you call SSA to request the suspension, make sure to ask them for a confirmation number or letter documenting your request. I've heard stories of people having their suspension requests "lost in the system" and then facing overpayment issues later. Having that documentation can save you a lot of headaches if there are any processing delays or mix-ups. Also, keep track of the exact date you requested the suspension since that's when it should become effective. Good luck with the new position - sounds like a great opportunity!