Ask Larry

Can I Receive Half Of My Husband's Benefit When He Retires?

I had to receive my ss disability before retirement age. When my husband retires at 65 or older can I receive half of his benefit. It will be a 400-500 dollar difference a month for me.

Hi,

When your husband files for his benefits you could potentially become eligible for spousal benefits if 50% of his full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than your full Social Security disability (SSDI) rate. In that case your combined SSDI and spousal benefits could total as much as 50% of your husband's PIA, but only if you start receiving the spousal benefits at your full retirement age or later. You need to be at least age 62 in order to qualify for spousal benefits, but if you start drawing them prior to your full retirement age your spousal rate will be reduced for age.

You and your husband should strongly consider using our maximization software in order to explore and compare your filing options and determine your best possible filing strategy.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Apr 21 2018 - 3:10pm
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.