Ask Larry

Is This The Best Strategy For Us?

I am 66 and currently receiving my benefits (since I was disabled about 8 years ago). Meanwhile, my husband is 65 (March 6th) and was planning to not receive his benefits until 70-1/2. Is that the best strategy for us?

Hi,

No, there are a couple things wrong with your strategy. In all likelihood, your husband should first apply for spousal benefits only on your account when he reaches age 66. Then, he should switch to his own account at age 70, not 70 1/2, assuming that the amount payable on his own record is higher than his spousal benefit on your record.

Depending on the relative amounts of your benefits, there may be additional filing strategies available to you. You may wish to run the maximization software available on this website to be sure that you don't make a mistake.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jul 22 2016 - 11:45am
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