Hi Larry,
Several years ago I filed a restricted application and am currently receiving spousal benefits. I want to switch to my own maximum retirement benefits beginning the month I turn 70, which is July 2023. I am filing the application online but there are several questions I do not know how to answer. Am hoping you can help.
1. Since I am receiving spousal benefits, are my Medicare and Social Security Benefits submitted on my wife's or my Social Security number?
2. I want to continue receiving spousal benefits until my benefits start in July. How do I answer the question, "If eligible for both retirement and spouse's benefits, delay receipt of retirement benefit?
Thanks
Armin

Hi Armin. The account on which your current Medicare eligibility was established would depend on whether or not you filed a Medicare only application prior to applying for spousal benefits. Regardless of on whose account your current Medicare eligibility is established, though, since Social Security numbers are no longer used as Medicare claim numbers, any claims submitted for Medicare reimbursement should be submitted using your assigned Medicare number.

There is a question on applications for Social Security retirement benefits that asks if you want to enroll in Part B of Medicare. Assuming that you already have Part B coverage, you would simply answer 'Yes' to that question. A negative response to that question could be interpreted by Social Security to mean that you want to cancel your Part B coverage. But, if you don't already have Part B coverage, then you should refer to the following Medicare website for enrollment period information: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Eligibility-and-Enrollment/OrigMedicarePart....

Regarding your second question, you'll want to answer 'No' to the question about delaying the receipt of retirement benefits. Answering 'Yes' to that question means that you want to apply for spousal benefits only, which you've apparently already done previously. Your entitlement to spousal benefits will still continue up until the month you switch to your own benefits.

Best, Jerry