Dear Professor Larry Kotlikoff
I am older than my spouse and earned less than my spouse. I worked till May 2013. I took SS in March 2014 retro to Sept 2013 at age of 69. As I understand my FRA was 2010 and I got DRC when I took SS. The difference from my PIA ($950) to what I got in September 2013 was $91 and in January 2014 it was ($140)
Now my Spouse is taking SS retro to June 2021. My husband PIA is $2950.
What would be my Spousal benefit, that would be added to my benefit starting in June 2021. I am confused as to which one of the following would be the scenario for me.

1. (My spouse PIA / 2 ) - (My PIA @ 66) = 1475 - 950 =525
2. (My spouse PIA / 2 ) - ( My SS with DRC in Sept 2013) = 1475 - 1041 = 434
3. (My spouse PIA / 2 ) - ( My SS with DRC in Jan 2014 = 1475 - 1090 = 385
4. (My spouse PIA / 2 ) - ( My SS with DRC & COLA in June 2021 ) = 1475 - 1210= 265
5. Something else.

Is there any other limit that might lower my total SS?
Is it always capped to my Spouse PIA / 2 ?
I really appreciate your help.
Regards
Tanveer

Hi Tanveer. If the benefit amounts you cite are correct, then your net excess spousal amount would be $265 (i.e. answer #4). The math shortcut for your scenario is to subtract your full current monthly benefit rate inclusive of the delayed retirement credit (DRC) increase from 50% of your spouse's current primary insurance amount (PIA) (https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0300615694).

In theory, the family maximum benefit (FMB) amount on your husband's record could limit what you're paid as a spouse, but if you and your husband are the only people collecting benefits on his account then the FMB won't limit your benefit rate.

And, yes, as long as your husband is still living, the most that you could be paid is the higher of a) your own benefit rate or b) 50% of your spouse's PIA.

Best, Jerry