My wife and I are 62. Can she retire and claim her benefits while I still work to full retirement age? Also, I am of the assumption that if she can, that income would be taxable if we file jointly?

Thanks, Chris

Hi Chris,

Yes, if your wife qualifies for benefits based on her own work record, she can receive benefits regardless of your work and earnings. Of course, if she files at age 62, she will be taking a reduced benefit amount.

Social Security benefits may or may not be taxable depending on the recipients income, and their spouse's income if they file jointly. For more information, see: https://www.ssa.gov/planners/taxes.html.

Before either you or your wife file for Social Security benefits, you may wish to run the maximization software available on this website to help you determine the best filing strategy.

Best, Jerry