Ask Larry

Can I Collect Half Of My Husband's Benefit And Wait Until Age 70 To Start My Own Benefits?

I INTEND TO CONTINUE TO WORK AFTER AGE 66 WHICH IF MY FULL RETIREMENT AGE TO COLLECT BENEIFTS. MY HUSBAND IS NOW COLLECTING FULL SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS. CAN I CONTINUE WORKING COLLECT HALF OF HIS SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS AND
HOLD OFF TILL 70 TO COLLECT MY OWN.

Hi,

If you were born prior to January 2 1954, then the answer is yes (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/deemedfaq.html). You'll need to wait until age 66 to be able to file just for spousal benefits without also being deemed to have applied on your own record, though.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Jan 31 2017 - 6:15am
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.