Ask Larry

Can I Switch To Spousal Benefits When My Husband Files?

I am 2 months older than my husband. When I turn 66 and claim my SS and my husband claims spousal SS at 66 and he waits until 70 to claim his SS, can I then switch to spousal SS to get 1/2 of his SS or am I stuck with only have my own SS?

Hi,

You couldn't exactly switch to spousal benefits, but you could file for an additional spousal benefit when your husband files for benefits on his own record. Your spousal rate would then be calculated by subtracting your own full retirement age rate (PIA) from 50% of your husband's PIA, and if positive that difference would be added to your own retirement rate. So, provided that 50% of your husband's PIA is higher than your own PIA and you don't start drawing your own benefits before full retirement age, that should bring your combined benefit rate up to 50% of your husband's PIA.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Dec 15 2017 - 10:12am
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