Ask Larry

If I Start Out Collecting Spousal Benefits At Age 66 Do I Have To Wait Until Age 70 To Switch To My Own Benefits?

Once I start collecting on spousal benefits at age 66 do I have to stay on that plan until age 70? Or can I stop anytime before age 70 and start collecting on my own SS?
Thank you,
Bob

Hi Bob,

No, you could switch at any time. The only limitation is that you could only claim retirement benefits on your own record for a maximum of 6 months prior to the month that you apply for them.

Before deciding when to switch to your own record, though, you should consider using our maximization software to compare your options.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Apr 12 2018 - 7:50am
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