When to file for Social Security survivor benefits starting 1/1/26 while delaying own retirement until 70?

The general rule is that you should apply for survivor benefits about 3 months before you want them to begin. So for a January 1, 2026 start date, you'd want to apply in early October 2025. When you apply, make it very clear to the SSA representative that you are filing ONLY for survivor benefits and plan to delay your retirement benefit until age 70. I recommend stating this multiple times during the interview and asking them to note it in your file. Be prepared that some SSA reps might not be familiar with restricted applications for survivors (even though they're still allowed). If you encounter confusion, politely ask to speak with a technical expert or supervisor who understands the nuances of survivor benefits.

Make ABSOLUTELY SURE you tell them several times you are ONLY filing for survivor benefits!!! My sister-in-law did this last year and the SSA rep automatically filed for both benefits even though she specifically said she only wanted survivors. Then they told her she couldn't withdraw the application after 60 days! It took months of fighting and multiple visits to fix it! Don't assume they understand the strategy - be super clear and get everything in writing if possible.

When I did this in 2023, I found it helpful to use very specific language. Don't just say "I want survivor benefits" - specifically state "I am filing a restricted application for survivor benefits only while delaying my retirement benefit until age 70." Also, I'd recommend getting the name and direct extension of the representative who helps you, and take detailed notes during your appointment including date, time, and what was discussed. One other tip - if you're filing online, there should be a comments section. Use that to explicitly state your intention to file for survivor benefits only while delaying your own retirement benefit. And follow up with a call to confirm they received and understood your instruction.

have you considered the tax implications? depending on your other income sources survivor benifits might be taxable. might want to talk to a tax person before you file.

If you're running into trouble getting through to SSA when you're ready to apply, I recently discovered a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to a live person at Social Security without the endless hold times. I was considering this same strategy and needed to ask some detailed questions. You can check them out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU that shows how it works. Saved me hours of frustration!

I went through this exact process last year! In addition to what others have said, here's what worked for me: 1. Apply 3 months before (so October 2025 for you) 2. Bring ALL documentation - birth certificates, marriage certificate, death certificate, tax returns for the past 2 years, work history 3. Prepare a SHORT written statement (they won't read a novel) that clearly explains "I am ONLY applying for survivor benefits as a widow/widower. I understand I am eligible to receive these while delaying my own retirement benefit until age 70." 4. Ask them to scan this statement into your file 5. After filing, check your MySocialSecurity account regularly to make sure they processed it correctly The distinction between different benefit types confuses even some SSA employees, so being extremely clear and having documentation is key.

What was your husband's FRA, and had he already filed for benefits before passing away? This could affect your survivor benefit amount. Also, have you checked if you'd qualify for the Lump Sum Death Payment of $255? It's not much but it's something many people don't know to claim.

make sure you know how much ur getting!!! i thought id be getting 2600/mo on my husbands record but it was actually only 2165 because of some weird calculation about his benefit and my earnings?? big shock when that first payment came in! definitely ask them to calculate the exact amount before you decide