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?
Answer: Fortunately, as I have indicated in past columns, a survivor benefit is independent from the Social Security benefit you are entitled to based on your work record….