As someone who recently went through a similar situation, I want to echo what others have said - you're absolutely right to plan ahead! I was in almost the exact same boat (divorced after 14 years, ex passed away, remarried at 63). The remarriage after 60 rule definitely applies to your situation. One thing I'd add that hasn't been mentioned yet - when you do apply, consider asking about filing a "protective filing date." This basically locks in your application date even if you don't have all your paperwork ready yet, which can be important for back-pay calculations. Also, don't be surprised if the first SSA representative you speak with seems uncertain about the rules - I had to speak with a supervisor to get the correct information. The peace of mind knowing you can remarry without losing those benefits is worth all the research!

I'm really glad to see this discussion happening because these Social Security rules can be so confusing for people in complicated situations like yours. Just wanted to add one more perspective as someone who's helped family members navigate similar issues - it's worth noting that the survivor benefit amount you'll receive is based on what your ex-husband was receiving (or entitled to receive) at the time of his death, not necessarily his full retirement age benefit. If he had already started collecting Social Security before he passed away, that could affect the calculation. Also, since you mentioned you're 60 now, you might want to consider whether it makes sense to start collecting reduced survivor benefits now (at 85.7% of the full amount) versus waiting until your full retirement age for the unreduced amount, especially given your remarriage plans. The financial planning aspect can be just as important as understanding the eligibility rules!

Something to consider - have you calculated what your spousal benefit will be at FRA versus what your own benefit will grow to with delayed retirement credits if you wait until 70? If your own benefit plus delayed credits would be higher than your spousal benefit at FRA, this whole issue might be moot. For example, if your own benefit at FRA would be $1,500 and could grow to $1,860 at age 70, but your spousal benefit at FRA would only be $1,700, you'd be better off focusing on maximizing your own benefit rather than worrying about the spousal component. Do you know both those numbers? If not, I'd recommend calling SSA to get an estimate of both scenarios before proceeding with any withdrawal.

I'm actually going through something similar right now! I'm 64 and was planning to file for my own benefits soon while waiting until FRA for spousal benefits. After reading your post, I immediately logged into my mySocialSecurity account to run some projections and make sure I understand exactly what will happen when I apply. This deemed filing rule seems like such a trap - especially since the online application doesn't make it crystal clear that you're automatically applying for ALL benefits you're eligible for. I've been doing research for months and this is the first time I'm seeing real-world examples of how confusing the process actually is. Based on what others have shared here, it sounds like the Form 521 partial withdrawal approach might work, but you definitely need to get it submitted before your first payment. Have you been able to get through to SSA again to get a second opinion on the exact wording for the form? Also, thank you for sharing this experience - it's probably going to save me from making the same mistake when I file in a few months!

One thing I wanted to mention that might help with your planning - since you're both filing early (before full retirement age), both of your benefits are permanently reduced. Your husband's $1,650 would have been higher if he'd waited until his FRA, and your $1,950 at 62 will also be less than your full benefit. The spousal benefit calculations others mentioned are based on the unreduced Primary Insurance Amounts, which is why the math might seem confusing when comparing to your actual reduced payments. If you do decide to contact SSA directly, ask them to show you both your PIA amounts so you can see exactly how the spousal benefit would be calculated in your case.

As a newcomer to Social Security planning, I'm finding this discussion incredibly helpful! I'm in a similar situation where my spouse and I are trying to figure out the best claiming strategy. One question I have - when you mention that survivor benefits allow the surviving spouse to get the higher benefit, does that apply even if both spouses filed early and took reduced benefits? For example, if both Zainab and her husband are taking reduced benefits (since they're filing before full retirement age), would the survivor still get the full higher amount, or would it be the reduced amount that was actually being paid? I'm trying to understand if there's any way to preserve the full benefit amount for survivor purposes even if you file early.

Good to know, thank you! I'll try to get an in-person appointment then.

I went through this exact same situation about 8 months ago! Just wanted to add that when you call or visit SSA, it really helps to have your marriage certificate handy too - they asked me for it even though we've been married 35 years. Also, don't be surprised if the first person you talk to isn't familiar with spousal benefits - I had to explain what I was looking for to two different representatives before getting transferred to someone who knew the process. The whole thing took about 6 weeks from application to seeing the increased payment, but it was definitely worth the hassle. My monthly benefit went from $756 to $1,124, so hang in there!

One more thing to consider: if either of you worked in jobs not covered by Social Security (like some government positions), the WEP (Windfall Elimination Provision) or GPO (Government Pension Offset) might affect your benefits. These provisions can reduce benefits for people who receive pensions from non-SS-covered employment. Just mentioning it in case that applies to your situation.

Your understanding is correct! Since your benefit ($1,900) is higher than 50% of your husband's benefit ($1,050), you won't receive any spousal benefit top-up. You'll just get your own retirement benefit. This is actually a good problem to have - it means you both had strong earnings histories! The spousal benefit really only helps when someone has a much lower benefit or no work record. As others mentioned, you might want to explore strategies like having your husband delay until 70 to maximize survivor benefits, since that could provide you with a higher monthly amount if you outlive him.