Ask Larry

Can I Collect Part Of My Husband's Social Security Benefit?

My husband is 68, currently works FT and started collecting his SS at Age 66. I am 61(DOB 2/55) and intend to retire by 2/28/17. I intended to hold off collecting my SS until as close to 66 as possible. As long as I am not going to work, can/should I collect part of my husband's SS benefit. My earnings make me eligible for maximum benefit at age 66. Thank you.

Hi,

No, if you file for spousal benefits, you'll also be deemed to be applying for benefits on your own record. If your own benefit rate is near maximum, it will obviously be higher than 50% of your husband's full retirement age rate, so it doesn't sound like you'll ever be eligible for spousal benefits.

You may want to run the maximization software available on this website before filing for benefits. It will analyze your filing options and help you decide when to start your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Oct 26 2016 - 10:00am
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.