My husband turns 66 in March 2018. He wants to wait to receive benefits until he turns 70. Does he need to file now and then request a restriction (if this is the correct terminology) or does he just do nothing until turning 70 in 2022? Additionally, I am currently 63 and contemplating filing for reduced benefits when I turn 64 in October 2018. If he is waiting on taking his own benefits until 2022, can he, in the mean time, file for spousal benefits on my account once I start receiving benefits in October 2018? If he does this, will it impact what either of us will receive when he turns 70 and starts receiving benefits?

Hi,

Your husband doesn't need to do anything until he is ready to start drawing his benefits. And yes, if you file for your benefits your husband could then file a restricted application for just spousal benefits only while still allowing his own benefit rate to grow until age 70. His drawing spousal benefits would not adversely affect either of your benefits or options when he reaches age 70.

You and your husband should strongly consider using our maximization software in order to compare all of your options and determine your best overall filing strategy.

Best, Jerry