Survivor Benefit Doesn’t Affect Social Security Work Benefit

Survivor Benefit Doesn’t Affect Social Security Work Benefit
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Tribune News Service
Updated:
By Elliot Raphaelson From Tribune Content Agency
Question: I was divorced many years ago after more than a 10-year marriage. I have not re-married. My previous wife has passed away, and she worked under Social Security for many years. I am 63 now, and don’t plan on filing for my Social Security benefit until I reach my full retirement age. Am I eligible for a survivor benefit? And if I do apply for it now, will that decrease the Social Security benefit I will be eligible for at full retirement?