Hello,
I am 67, my husband is 64. I was born BEFORE Jan 2, 1954. I collect social security benefits, my husband does not. I have suspended my social security benefits once but have since restarted. I have just learned about Restricted Application Social Security, my question - can I suspend my benefits again and participate in Restricted Application benefits?

Hi,

No, you can't file a restricted application for spousal benefits only if you've already applied for your own Social Security retirement benefits, even if you voluntarily suspend your Social Security retirement benefits.

The only way that you could potentially file a restricted application for spousal benefits is if you withdraw your application for Social Security retirement benefits. But, Social Security only allows you to withdraw an application for retirement benefits if you originally became entitled to benefits within the past 12 months (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/withdrawal.html). AND, you could not claim spousal benefits unless and until your husband starts drawing his Social Security retirement benefits. You and your husband may want to strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to explore and compare your various options so that you can choose the best possible strategy for claiming your benefits.

Best, Jerry