Ask Larry

Can I File Just For Spousal Benefits Even If My Own Benefit Rate Would Be Higher Than My Spousal Rate?

My wife and I both have earning records that allow each of us to receive individual SS benefits. My wife turned 66 in March of 2017 and began collecting her FRA benefit. I will turn 66 in February of 2018 and plan to delay my own benefit until age 70. In the meantime, I am planning to file a restricted application to receive a spousal benefit based on her current FRA benefit. If my projected FRA benefit is higher than the benefit she is now receiving, will I qualify to receive the spousal benefit?

Hi,

Yes, since you were born prior to January 2 1954 you can file just for spousal benefits only at age 66 and allow your own benefit rate to grow until age 70. The amount that you could receive as a spouse at age 66 is 50% of your wife's full retirement age rate (PIA).

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Oct 10 2017 - 4:09pm
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.