I will türm 70 on November 4, 1951. I have not taken Social Security benefits on my record although I am taking a spousal benefit under a restricted application. In order to maximize my own benefit should I apply to have my own benefit to start in November 2021 or December 2021 and how far in advance may I submit that application? Also, what must my wife do to switch from her own benefit to a spousal benefit. Also, is there a way to do that online or can I do it over the phone?

Hi,

I assume you mean that November 4 1951 is your date of birth. If that's the case then you wouldn't want to claim your own Social Security benefits any later than effective with the month of November 2021, assuming that your own benefit rate is higher than your spousal rate. Social Security counts you as being age 70 for the entire month in which you reach age 70, so you'll receive your age 70 rate if you choose November 2021 as your month of election to start your benefits.

You can apply for Social Security benefits up to 4 months prior to the month that you wish to claim your benefits. You can try filing online at Social Security's website (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/), but if that doesn't work you'll need to call Social Security in order to make an appointment to apply by phone or in person.

Best, Jerry