Hi Larry and Team,
My wife and I have purchased your software, but still need help regarding "File and Suspend" as the local SS office has different answers depending on who you talk with.
I am 66, have reached my FRA and am still working. I have filed and suspended prior to April 30th of this year. My wife is 63 and a non-working spouse who has not yet filed. Is she able to file for half of my SS now and then upon reaching age 70 begin to collect her own SS. What would be the best option for us so we could maximize our social security benefits? Thank you. Ray & Mary

Hi Ray & Mary,

It sound like you've done everything right so far. The fact that you filed and suspended prior to April 30th 2016 will enable Mary to receive spousal benefits on your account even while your benefits are suspended. And, Ray, since you have already filed, your benefits should automatically start when you reach age 70, at which time they will be at their maximum rate.

Since Mary was born prior to 1954, she is still able to file a restricted application for spousal benefits only at full retirement age (FRA) which is age 66 in her case, then switch to her own account at age 70. That is almost certainly your best option, but the maximization software should confirm that.

There has been a lot of confusion about the new Social Security law passed by Congress last year, apparently even among Social Security employees, so don't believe them if they tell you that you cannot follow the above strategy. If you run into problems, insist on speaking with a technical expert or supervisor. You can also refer them to the following instructions issued to SSA employees regarding the new law: https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/reference.nsf/links/02052016024404PM & https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/reference.nsf/links/02182016020549PM.

Best, Jerry