Ask Larry

Can I Take My Benefits Early And Can My Husband Collect Spousal Benefits?

I was born December, 1958 can I take my social security early say 64-65 and if so can my husband who is six months younger than I collect on spousal benefits at half of my full retirement benefit?

Then, he would wait to collect his social security at full retirement age or later yet, by 70.

I wait for your reply.

Thank you
Diane

Hi Diane. You can claim your benefits any time between ages 62 and 70, but if you apply before your full retirement age (FRA) there would be a limit on how much you could earn and still be paid benefits. Also, the earlier that you start drawing your benefits prior to age 70 the lower your monthly rate would be.

Your husband couldn't apply for spousal benefits without being required to apply for his own benefits at the same time. Therefore, collecting spousal benefits while allowing his own benefits to continue growing isn't a valid option for your husband. Only people who were born prior to January 2 1954 were allowed to apply for spousal benefits while waiting until later to claim their own benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/claiming.html).

You and your husband may want to strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze all of your options so that you can determine the best overall strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Mar 20 2022 - 11:36am
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