I was born 8/19/53 and was planning on retiring 7/31/2019 and applying for benefits in August 2019 when I turn 66. My wife was born 4/29/54 and was planning on retiring 6/29/2019 and applying for benefits in June 2019. When I put ages into the what if scenario of your program, it is showing that I need to apply the same time as my wife. So can she apply and June and me wait until August? What is our best strategy for me to get FTA benefits?

Hi,

To preface, I should explain that I answer general Social Security questions submitted via this forum, but I don't have access to our software customers' data. If you have specific questions regarding the results you received when using our software, please submit your question(s) using an online contact form available in the help menu. One of our experts with access to your data and results will then respond.

To answer your question, though, yes your wife could file effective with June and you could file effective with August. Your and your wife's months of election to start benefits don't have to coincide, although if you're planning to file a restricted application for just spousal benefits only while delaying your own retirement benefits you couldn't claim benefits effective with any month prior to the month you reach full retirement age (FRA). Your wife must be drawing benefits on her record in order for you to claim spousal benefits, but it's fine if she decides to start drawing before you.

Best, Jerry