Ask Larry

Can My Wife Get Benefits While Mine Are Voluntarily Suspended?

I turned 66 in January 2016 & I filed & suspended in Feb. 2016 because I'm planning to wait until 70 to actually take my social security benefits. My wife is 63 & will be turning 64 this year but was a stay at home mom with virtually no SS benefits of her own. She has not filed & suspended or done anything yet. Under the new laws will she be able to file when she turns 66 & receive half of my full retirement benefits while I'm still waiting till 70 ?

Hi,

Since you reached full retirement age and voluntarily suspended benefits prior to the April 29 2016 deadline, the answer is yes, your wife can receive spousal benefits on your account while your benefits are suspended.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jul 10 2016 - 11:45am
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.