Ask Larry

Can My Wife Collect Spousal Benefits At Full Retirement Age?

I was on ssdi until I reached fra in Nov 2016 now on ssi of 2350 so I can't suspend without paying my ssdi back. My spouse is on ssdi recieving 850 and will reach fra in nov 2020. When reaching fra can my spouse colect spousal off my record.

Hi,

Yes, if 50% of your full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than her disability rate, your wife could be eligible for additional spousal benefits on your record. She could start drawing the spousal benefits as early as age 62, but her benefit rate would be reduced if she did so. If she waits until full retirement age (FRA) to start drawing spousal benefits, her combined retirement and spousal benefit amounts would total 50% of your PIA.

Also, you can voluntarily suspend your retirement benefits in order to earn delayed retirement credits. You would not have to pay back any of your disability benefits in order to do so. Note the third example in the following reference from Social Security's operations manual: https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0202409110. However, you would not be able to draw spousal benefits even if you suspend your own benefits.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Apr 4 2017 - 7:00am
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