Ask Larry

Will My Wife Get Spouse's Benefits Even If I Haven't Yet Filed?

Thanks for “Get What’s Yours”. I read this early in 2015 and, despite changes to Social Security caused by the budget bill later in 2015, I found a lot of value in the information presented within the book.
Others may have asked this or a similar question. However, due to our ages, perhaps the answer is different.
While my wife and I were both born during 1956, neither of us is working full-time any longer. At FRA, my PIA will be $2525 while my wife’s PIA will be $905.
Based on our understanding from the book, my wife will file for SS on her record at FRA. I will wait until 70 to file with my wife filing at the same time for her excess spousal benefit.
Other recent publications seem to say that, when my wife files at her FRA, she will get the greater of her PIA or her spousal benefit (even if I have not yet filed).
Is my understanding correct?
Will there be an updated version of "Get What's Yours"?

Paul,
Your wife will receive her FRA retirement benefit if she files for it at her FRA. She will not receive her spouse's benefit at that time since she isn't eligible for her spouse's benefit until you file for your retirement benefit at age 70. The revised edition to "Get What's Yours" has been available since May.
Best,
Mike

Category: 
Posted: 
Jul 10 2016 - 4:15pm
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