Social Security survivor benefits now or wait till January for extra $100? FRA decision with earnings limit

Given your longevity expectation (90+), I'd recommend taking the survivor benefit now at $3,493. Here's why: 1. The difference is only $105/month if you wait until January 2026 2. By taking benefits now, you'll collect approximately $20,958 ($3,493 × 6 months) before January 2026 3. It would take about 200 months (16+ years) at the $105 higher rate to make up for the 6 months of missed payments 4. You'd need to live past age 82 just to break even on waiting With the earnings test affecting your own benefit until FRA anyway, the survivor benefit makes more financial sense. And yes, it will help cover Medicare premiums starting right away instead of waiting.

TAKE THE MONEY NOW!!! I waited 8 months for an extra $78 on my SS and REGRET IT EVERY DAY! That's $$$$ you'll never get back. The SSA doesn't explain this stuff clearly AT ALL. My neighbor waited too and says the same thing - it's a bad deal to wait unless the amount is MUCH bigger. The system is designed to confuse us!!!

I'd recommend carefully considering both short and long-term impacts. With survivor benefits, unlike retirement benefits, there's no guaranteed increase for delaying beyond FRA. If January 2026 is your FRA, that $100 difference is likely just from COLA adjustments they're estimating. Taking survivor benefits now frees up your own retirement benefit to grow until age 70 if desired. You could potentially switch to your own benefit at 70 if it grows to exceed the survivor amount. Also confirm whether the earnings test will reduce your benefits the same regardless of which benefit you choose. Generally, if you're working substantial hours, the earnings test will apply to both types of benefits similarly. If your family typically has longevity into the 90s, maximizing the higher long-term benefit makes mathematical sense, but quality of life now matters too.

I lost my husband in 2021 and was in a similar situation. Took survivor benefits right away and so glad I did! The money helped immediately with expenses and I was able to invest some too. Still not sure I made the right choice long term but having that money when I needed it most was huge. Plus, Medicare is expensive! Don't underestimate how much that covers.

Have you tried speaking directly with an SSA representative about this? When I had to make a similar decision last year, I spent 3 weeks trying to get through on the phone. Kept getting disconnected or waiting 2+ hours. Finally I found a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an SSA agent in under 10 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU The rep I spoke with ran calculations showing exactly how much I'd gain or lose with different filing strategies. Made my decision much easier when I saw the actual numbers. Worth considering since you're facing such an important financial choice with long-term consequences.

my mom just went thru this. she took ss now instead of waiting. she said bird in hand better than 2 in bush lol. but she doesnt have the earnings test thing so maybe different for u? not sure how that works exactly

There's one more factor to consider: tax implications. If you have other income sources, taking the higher survivor benefit might push you into a higher tax bracket where up to 85% of your Social Security becomes taxable. This varies based on your overall income situation. Also, be aware that the earnings test in 2025 will likely be around $22,000 for those below FRA (it's $21,240 in 2023). For every $2 you earn above that limit, $1 is withheld from benefits. This applies to both your own retirement and survivor benefits. Make sure the SSA has your most accurate 2025 earnings estimate to calculate the holdback correctly.

When my FRA hit in 2023, I spent HOURS figuring out the best time to file. Took everything to my accountant who told me I was overthinking it. He looked at my numbers and said "you'd need to live to 97 to make waiting worthwhile." I filed the next day! Even if your family lives into their 90s, don't ignore the time value of money NOW. Could be different in your case though since you're comparing survivor vs own benefits which is more complicated than just timing.

Just wanted to say I'm in my 80s now and one thing I've learned - the peace of mind from having steady income sooner rather than later is worth a lot. Numbers on paper don't always capture the real-life value of financial security during these years.

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.