As the higher wage earner, I'm applying to start SS next month on my 70th bday. My husband(77)has been collectng a small benefit since his full retirement age(66). Once I file, I've read that he can file for spousal benefits that could go back 6 months. Is this true? Would it hurt my benefit?

Hi. Your husband can't be paid spousal benefits for any month prior to the month you elect to start your Social Security retirement benefits. So, if you claim your benefits effective with the month you turn age 70, that's the first month for which your husband could potentially be paid spousal benefits.

You could elect to start your benefits retroactively for up to 6 months prior to the month you apply, in which case your husband could also potentially be paid up to 6 months of retroactive spousal benefits. But, you'd then lose the delayed retirement credits (DRC) that you would otherwise have accrued for those 6 months, lowering your benefit rate by 4%. And, your husband's potential survivor benefit rate would then also be reduced by the same amount.

It sounds like you and your husband should strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to compare and analyze all of your various options so that you can determine what you believe would be the best overall strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry