I just applied for ss benefits..i will be 62 in Jan 2017. My spouse will be 67 in January 2017 and is currently receiving retirement benefits..she got a letter stating she may be able to draw spousal benefits on my account. Is there any benefit to this and how would this affect my benefit?..I have attempted to research this and have only gotten more confused.

Hi,

Yes, if your spouse qualifies for spousal benefits on your record, she should definitely start taking them as soon as possible, which would be the month your benefits start. Since she is already over full retirement age, her excess spousal benefit will be no higher if she delays filing.

Her excess spousal benefit would be equal to the difference between her full retirement age benefit amount, and 50% of your full retirement age benefit amount, assuming the latter amount is higher. If she does qualify for spousal benefits on your record, it will have no adverse effect on your benefits.

Best, Jerry