I am currently working at 61, with a nice annual income. Due to that, my husband, currently 69, is retired but waiting until he turns 70 to file for social security. What is the best way for him to file? Can he claim benefits on my work record? ( Which is greater than his?). If the stars align, I will also wait to 70 to file to maximize my payout...( Dad is 96....I might need it!) Do I have to claim benefits before he can claim on my earnings record? ( Still in progress...). Thank you

Hi,

Your husband couldn't draw spousal benefits at least until you start drawing your benefits, and he would only be eligible for spousal benefits if 50% of your full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than his own full benefit rate inclusive of any delayed retirement credits that he earns by waiting past full retirement age to start drawing his retirement benefits.

If 50% of your PIA is higher than what your husband's own rate would be if he waits until age 70 to claim his retirement benefits, then he almost certainly should claim his own benefits as soon as possible. You and your husband should strongly consider using our maximization software to explore and compare your filing options in order to determine your best overall strategy for claiming benefits.

Best, Jerry