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Are My Assumptions Correct?

My wife and I both will reach FRA in October of this year. We are both recently retired. At FRA, SS estimates my monthly benefit at $2249 and hers at $1534. From what I have read and learned, our best course of action is for her to claim at FRA and for me to claim spousal benefits via a restricted application. My assumption is that we will leave mine to grow to the SS estimated $3084 at age 70, for whichever of us survives longest. I suppose their estimate is a bit high since I am not working to age 70 (probably more like $2969 (1.32 x $2249). I calculate our break even point with this method to be past age 85 and also we would like to start the flow before any new detrimental laws impact us negatively. Are my assumptions/calculations more or less accurate?

Hi,

Yes, you appear to understand your options correctly, and the strategy you plan to follow is likely your best choice.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Aug 2 2016 - 3:15pm
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