Ask Larry

Is It Possible To File For And Suspend My Benefits So My Wife Can Draw On Me?

Dennis: Age 65. DOB 7/21/1953 taxable income is 500k for next 8 years
Spouse is 61. 2/10/58. She worked 15 years as a teacher but has not worked in 20 years.

I am postponing my SSI until age 70 so to maximize my monthly check. Is it possible to file for SSI and suspend so my wife can draw on me?

Hi Dennis,

No. If you file for and suspend your benefits, any spousal benefits that your wife qualifies for from your record would also be suspended (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/suspendfaq.html).

You and your wife should strongly consider using our software to explore and compare all of your various options in order to determine your best overall strategy for claiming your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Apr 17 2019 - 10:16am
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.