Dear Liz: My husband died 10 years ago. He had a good salary for many years. I just turned 60 and have been told that I may now claim Social Security benefits as his widow. He has a minor child from another relationship. If I claim survivor benefits now, will it diminish the benefits his child now receives?
Answer: No. If you’re still working, however, your benefit will be reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn over a certain limit, which in 2023 is $21,240. The earnings test disappears once you reach full retirement age, which is 67 for people born in 1960 and later.
Also, you’re allowed to switch from a survivor benefit to your own and vice versa. That flexibility is unusual, and could allow you to let your own benefit grow until it maxes out at age 70. You may want to consult a fee-only financial planner or a Social Security claiming strategy site for advice.