I am currently collecting RR benefits and reached FRA prior to my retirement . My wife retired at 62 and has also been collecting RR retirement but at a reduction.. Her plan is to switch to Social Security at 70 since her benefit will be much higher. My question is can I collect a spousal benefit at that time based on her SS benefit? BTW I purchased your book Get What's Yours prior to my retirement and though I receive RR your book answered many questions regarding retirement for myself and my wife. Thank you!

Hi. Yes, you could claim Social Security spousal benefits when your wife starts drawing her Social Security retirement benefits, but the Railroad Retirement Board would then offset your Tier 1 Railroad Retirement (RR) benefit dollar for dollar by the amount of your Social Security spousal benefit. Therefore, it would likely only be advantageous for you to apply for spousal benefits if that benefit amount is higher than your Tier 1 RR benefit amount.

Best, Jerry