How long before 60th birthday can I apply for survivor benefits

[HelenK759435]

Spoiler

My husband is deceased. I will turn 60 in 2 months and want to apply for social security survivor benefits. Since SSA says the processing time for these benefits is 30-60 days, should I apply now, before my 60th birthday, so they begin when I turn 60, or will doing that trigger some flag at SSA that I am not at the correct age?  (Have not been able to connect with SSA to get an answer to this question). Thank you.

[GailL1]

@HelenK759435 

You cannot apply for Survivor’s Benefits ONLINE so find your local SS office and make an appointment and carry all the necessary documents to get the ball rolling - Do this now so that they can set the benefits up when you turn 60 

Remember that you will get a reduced benefit because you are not FRA

Remember that if you have work earnings over the income limit (in 2023 - $21,240 - changes every year, usually), they will holdback some of your benefit also.

SSA.gov Survivors Benefits