Ask Larry

Can I Receive Spousal Benefits Before My Husband Files For His Benefits?

my husband born 1/29/54 would like to wait till maximum age 70 to file for his own benefits. can i take half of his when i turn 66 in 4 years, even if he does not file?

Hi,

Your husband must be drawing his retirement benefits in order for you to potentially receive spousal benefits on his record. And, if you are already drawing benefits on your own record, you could only receive additional spousal benefits if 50% of your husband's full retirement age benefit rate (PIA) is higher than your own PIA.

You may want to consider running the maximization software available on this website in order to explore all of your options and determine the best filing strategy for you and your husband.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Mar 25 2017 - 6:45am
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