Ask Larry

Can My Husband File For Spousal Benefits If I'm Still Working?

Hi there,
I am 61 and my husband is turning 65. He can draw when he's 66, as can I. (66 and 1 month)
He would like to delay drawing his own until age 70. Can he draw half of mine when he turns 66 while I am still employed and then switch to his own at 70? Will this in any way have impact on me drawing my benefit when I turn 66? I know the law changed, but he was born in 1952, so I think he might still be able to do this? Thanks! (Mine is the higher benefit)

Hi,

In order for your husband to receive spousal benefits on your record, you must already be drawing your benefits. So, when he turns 66 and you are at least age 62, you could file for reduced retirement benefits on your record in order to permit him to file a restricted application for spousal benefits only. But, you'd have to limit your earnings in order for either of you to receive benefits due to the Social Security earnings test (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/whileworking2.html).

Bottom line is that the above strategy may be advantageous for you and your husband, depending on a number of other factors. You may want to run the maximization software available on this website in order to determine your best strategy.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Sep 30 2016 - 10:15am
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