Ask Larry

Can I Receive Spousal Benefits And Delay Taking My Own Benefits?

My wife is taking social security for the last two and half years, well before the new law went into effect last year. I am at my retirement age but want to delay my social security benefits. Will it be possible for me to take spousal benefits - half of my wife amount?

2nd Q- May I visit any social security office irrespective of my home zip code?

Hi,

It sounds like you'd be eligible for spousal benefits, but you must be at least full retirement age to file just for spousal benefits without also filing for benefits on your own record. And, this type of restricted filing is only available to people born prior to January 2 1954 (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/deemedfaq.html).

And yes, you are free to visit any Social Security office.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Jan 9 2017 - 7:45am
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