One additional point that might be helpful - if you're concerned about being near a bend point, you can actually estimate the impact of your additional earnings before the year ends. Log into your my Social Security account and look at your earnings record to see what your lowest earning year is among your highest 35 years. If your 2025 total earnings (including the $42k from July-December) would be higher than that lowest year when adjusted for wage inflation, then you'll definitely see a benefit increase. The Social Security Administration has bend point calculators available, though they can be a bit complex to use. But given that you're specifically mentioning being near a bend point, that extra $42k could potentially push you into a higher benefit calculation tier, which would be even more beneficial than a simple year replacement.

I just wanted to add one more practical tip that helped me when I was in a similar situation. Since you're planning to file in June but continue working through December, make sure to keep detailed records of your monthly earnings after you start receiving benefits. While the recalculation happens automatically, having your own records can be helpful if you need to follow up with SSA or if there are any discrepancies in their calculations. Also, don't be surprised if you don't see the benefit increase right away - from what I've experienced and read here, it typically takes until the following spring for the adjustments to show up in your payments. The wait can be nerve-wracking, but it's just part of their standard processing timeline. Your situation sounds very similar to mine from a few years ago, and it definitely worked out well in the end!

btw when u actually apply for SS make sure to check ur estimated benefit on the mySocialSecurity website bc sometimes they mess up the calculations.

Just want to add another perspective here - I'm a retired federal employee and went through something similar when I withdrew from my TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) for home improvements. The SSA treats TSP withdrawals exactly the same as IRA/401k withdrawals - no impact on Social Security benefits at all. What really helped me was getting everything in writing from SSA. When I had questions, I submitted them through the secure messaging on the mySocialSecurity website rather than calling. That way I had documentation of their responses. Might be worth doing if you want extra peace of mind about your situation. Sounds like you made a smart financial decision for your home purchase - don't let the worry overshadow that accomplishment!

Just wanted to add another option that might help - if you live near a Social Security office that offers Saturday hours (some do during busy periods), that could be a good alternative to avoid taking time off work. Also, when you submit the W-4V form, ask specifically about getting email confirmation when the change is processed. Some offices are starting to offer that service, though it's not standard everywhere yet. I learned this when I helped my neighbor with her withholding change last month. The whole process is definitely outdated, but at least there are a few small conveniences creeping in at some locations.

I just went through this same process last month and can add a few more tips that might help. First, if you're planning to drop off the form in person, call ahead to confirm your local office is still accepting walk-ins for form submissions - some offices changed their policies during COVID and still require appointments for certain services. Second, if you decide to mail it, I'd strongly recommend using certified mail with a return receipt so you have proof it was delivered. Regular mail can get lost and then you're back to square one after waiting weeks. Finally, once your withholding change takes effect, keep an eye on your annual Social Security Statement (available in your my Social Security account) to make sure the withholding totals look correct for tax planning purposes. The whole paper form requirement is definitely frustrating in 2025, but at least the actual processing usually works once they receive it properly.

I'm so sorry you're going through this difficult time with your husband. The advice you've received here is really solid - you absolutely can claim survivor benefits without being forced to take your own retirement benefits early. One additional thing I'd suggest is requesting a Social Security Statement online at ssa.gov/myaccount to see your projected benefits at different claiming ages. This will help you compare what you might receive as a survivor versus what your own benefit would be at FRA or age 70, so you can make the most informed decision about when to switch. Also, when the time comes to apply for survivor benefits, you can actually apply up to 3 months before you want the benefits to start. This can help avoid any processing delays. The benefits can begin as early as the month after your husband passes away. Take care of yourself during this incredibly challenging time. Having a plan for the financial aspects can be one less thing to worry about.

I'm truly sorry for what you and your husband are going through. This is such a difficult situation, and I want to echo what others have said - you absolutely CAN claim survivor benefits without being forced to take your own retirement benefits early. Since you mentioned you were the higher earner, this strategy makes a lot of financial sense. You could take the survivor benefit (limited by the RIB-LIM rule as others explained) and then switch to your own higher benefit later - either at your FRA or even at 70 if waiting makes sense financially. One practical tip I haven't seen mentioned: when you're ready to apply for survivor benefits, consider making the appointment for a few weeks out rather than trying to handle everything immediately after your loss. The benefits can be retroactive up to 6 months, so you won't lose money by taking a little time to get organized emotionally and gather all your documents. Also, if you have any joint accounts or direct deposits set up with his Social Security, those will need to be changed when you switch to survivor benefits. The SSA can help you with that process. You're doing an incredible job caring for your husband during this time. Having a plan for the financial side will be one less burden when you're grieving.

I'm so sorry for your loss, Astrid. I went through something similar when my father passed last year. One thing that helped me was calling the SSA main number (1-800-772-1213) very early in the morning - around 8 AM when they open - or later in the evening before they close. The wait times tend to be shorter then. Also, if you have a my Social Security account online, you can check there to see if any payments have been processed recently. While you can't report the death online, it gives you a better picture of what's happening with her account. Don't worry too much about the timing - as long as you report it promptly and return any payments received after her death date, you won't be penalized. The SSA understands that families need time to handle these situations.

I'm really sorry for your loss, Astrid. Dealing with SSA bureaucracy while grieving is incredibly stressful. A few additional tips that might help: If you're calling SSA, try using their automated callback feature if available - you can request they call you back instead of waiting on hold. Also, when you do get through, ask the representative to put a "death alert" on her record immediately, which should prevent future payments even if you don't have all the paperwork yet. For the $255 death benefit, they can start the application process with just the funeral home's death notification, but you'll need to provide the official death certificate later to complete it. The key thing is getting that initial report filed ASAP to stop the monthly payments. If you're still having trouble reaching them by phone, some people have had success contacting their local congressman's office - they often have direct lines to SSA for constituent services. Hang in there, and don't hesitate to ask for help from family or friends with the paperwork if you need it.