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Is There An Advantage To My Husband Starting His Benefits This Year Because Of The COLA?

This is a two part question.
1) Our plan had been that my husband collect his social security at age 70. February of 2022.
Is there an advantage to claiming this year in November or December to take advantage a the huge cost of living increase. (He is no longer working so no advantage in collecting based on current income)
2) I don't turn 70 until November of next year. When he does claim by February, should I collect a spousal benefit and then could receive my own higher benefit when I turn 70?
Thank you!

Hi. The answer to your first question is no. Your husband will receive credit for the upcoming 5.9% cost of living (COLA) increase regardless of whether he starts drawing benefits this year or next year.

Ans, the answer to your second question is yes. Since you were born prior to January 2 1954 you could file a restricted claim for just spousal benefits only when your husband starts his benefits, and you could then apply to switch to drawing your own benefits at age 70.

You and your husband may want to strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze all of the options available to you in order to determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Oct 17 2021 - 4:02pm
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