I notice you mentioned covering Medicare costs - just to clarify, if you're approaching FRA, Medicare enrollment is separate from Social Security benefits. You'll want to sign up for Medicare at 65 regardless of when you claim SS benefits to avoid late enrollment penalties. If you're already on Medicare, the premiums can indeed be deducted from your SS payment once it starts, which many find convenient. Also, while family longevity is important to consider, don't forget to factor in your own health status and financial needs when making this decision. Statistics are helpful guides, but your personal situation should drive the final choice.

I'm a newcomer here but have been researching Social Security extensively for my own upcoming decision. Based on what I've read in this thread, it seems like the consensus is pretty clear - take the survivor benefits now at $3,493/month rather than waiting for the extra $100. What really struck me was Olivia's breakdown showing you'd need to live past 82 just to break even on waiting 6 months. That's a long time to recover what you'd miss out on now. Plus, with your earnings situation affecting when you'd get your first payment anyway, the survivor benefit seems like the obvious choice. I'm curious though - have you considered what happens if your own retirement benefit continues to grow until age 70? Gabriel mentioned you could potentially switch later if your own benefit becomes higher. That might give you the best of both worlds: immediate income now from survivor benefits, plus keeping your options open for the future. Good luck with your decision! It sounds like you've got a lot of good advice here.

anyone else notice how the ssa website says one thing but then the people on the phone tell you something totally different?? its so confusing trying to figure out whats actually true

I'm in a somewhat similar situation and wanted to share what I learned from my research. One thing that hasn't been mentioned yet is that if you do file for spousal benefits at 62, you'll be subject to the earnings test if you're still working (even part-time). They'll reduce your benefits by $1 for every $2 you earn above $23,400 (2024 limit). This might not apply to you if you're not working due to disability, but it's something to keep in mind. Also, I found that creating a my Social Security account online helped me see my estimated benefits and work history, which made it easier to compare my own retirement benefit vs. spousal benefit options. The whole system is definitely confusing, but having those numbers in front of you can help with the decision.

Update for everyone following this thread: The latest version of the WEP/GPO repeal bill now includes a 5-year phase-in period with priority given to beneficiaries over 65. The first year would provide 20% relief from GPO, increasing by 20% each year until full repeal in year 5. It also has a "hold harmless" provision ensuring no one would receive less than they do under current rules. The bill has 305 cosponsors in the House (well over the 290 needed to force a vote), so there's real momentum now.

I'm in a very similar situation as a retired teacher dealing with GPO! One thing I learned that might help you is to request a "benefit estimate" from SSA that shows what your ex-spouse benefit would be WITHOUT the GPO offset. They can calculate this for you even though you're currently affected by GPO. When I called, I specifically asked them to run the numbers both ways - with and without GPO - so I could see exactly what I'm missing. The representative was actually very helpful once I explained what I needed. This gave me a clear picture of what to expect if the repeal passes. Also, I'd recommend checking the SSA website for your ex-husband's earnings record if you have access to it. Since ex-spouse benefits are based on his Primary Insurance Amount (what he would get at full retirement age), you can get a rough estimate yourself. At 67, you'd be eligible for the full 50% without any early filing reductions on your part. The waiting is frustrating, but having concrete numbers helps with financial planning in the meantime!

One strategy some people use if they're close to another year of substantial earnings is to work part-time in Social Security covered employment to reach another year threshold. Each additional year between 20-30 reduces your WEP penalty by about 5%. If you're only 1-2 years away from 30 years, it might be worth considering working a bit longer to significantly reduce or eliminate the WEP impact.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago! I also had around 22 years of SS-covered work plus a state pension. The harsh reality is that WEP will definitely apply regardless of when you claim - FRA doesn't protect you from it. Based on what others have shared here about the sliding scale, with 22 years you're probably looking at around a $300-400 reduction rather than the full $612 maximum. I'd strongly recommend getting your exact WEP calculation from SSA before making your final decision. Also, double-check that all 22 of your years actually meet the "substantial earnings" threshold - I discovered one of my early years didn't qualify, which changed my calculation. The good news is that even with WEP, you'll still get a significant benefit, just not the full amount you were initially expecting.

Based on all the advice here, I'd suggest applying in August 2024 for your January 2025 start date. That gives you 5 months, which should be plenty of buffer for any processing delays. And don't forget to create your my Social Security account online before you apply if you haven't already - it makes the whole process much smoother.

One thing I'd add that hasn't been mentioned - make sure you have your most recent W-2 or tax return handy when you apply. SSA uses your earnings record to calculate your benefit amount, and sometimes there can be discrepancies that need to be resolved. I discovered when I applied that one of my employers from a few years back hadn't reported my earnings correctly, which delayed my application by about 3 weeks while they sorted it out. You can actually check your earnings record online through your my Social Security account before applying to make sure everything looks accurate. Better to catch any issues early rather than have them pop up during processing!