My wife currently collects a small disability benefit from Social Security. Once I start collecting at FRA, can she file to collect a larger benefit based on my larger earnings record? She is 7 years younger than me, so what age should she wait until?

Hi. Your wife would need to be at least age 62 or have an eligible child in her care to potentially be able to qualify for spousal benefits when you start drawing your benefits. And, assuming that your wife doesn't have an eligible child in her care and if she claims spousal benefits prior to her full retirement age (FRA), her spousal rate would be reduced for age.

As for when your wife should claim spousal benefits if she does qualify for them, that depends on a number of factors. You should strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze the options available to you and your wife in order to determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry