Widows and Social Security—Making the Most of Survivor Benefits

For widows and widowers, Social Security is more than income—it’s often a lifeline. But many don’t realize how much the timing of benefits can impact what a surviving spouse ultimately receives.

Survivor Benefits Explained

• A surviving spouse can claim 100% of their spouse’s benefit if they wait until their own FRA.

• Claiming earlier reduces the amount.

• Importantly: the amount you inherit as a survivor depends on when your spouse originally claimed. If they filed early, the survivor benefit will be lower.

Why Timing Matters—Even After Death

One of our reports showed how delaying the higher earner’s benefit not only increased their income while alive but left the surviving spouse with a significantly higher lifetime income stream.

For example, if the higher earner delayed to age 70, the survivor could receive thousands more per year for the rest of their life. That’s powerful protection against longevity risk.

Planning for Two Lifetimes

When couples plan Social Security, they need to think in terms of two lives, not one. Survivor benefits continue as long as the surviving spouse lives, which could be decades.

👉 Next Steps: If you’re widowed (or planning for the possibility), understanding survivor benefits is essential. Your Social Security Blueprint can show you how much timing impacts the survivor’s long-term security. Grab a spot on my calendar.

This article is for informational purposes only and not tax advice. Always consult your tax preparer for guidance specific to your situation.

LynnLeigh & Company - A Registered Investment Advisor This information is provided by LynnLeigh & Co. for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable – LynnLeigh & Co. advisors cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances. To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.   Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns.

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