Hello, we are close to retirement and keep a close eye on our SS benefit amounts. This year we noticed both of them increasing by the 5.9% for 2021 COLA but nothing for the huge increase in my wifes 35 year earnings history increase this year. I heard they review it the fall we've checked it several times but nothing yet. Thank you for any advice!

Hi. I don't know whether or not Social Security is behind in updating their published benefit estimates. All I can tell you is that your and your wife's Social Security retirement benefit rates will be calculated based on your respective highest 35 years of Social Security covered wage indexed earnings, and you'll both be credited with all Social Security cost of living (COLA) increases that occurred after you turned age 62.

You and your wife may want to strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to get accurate benefit estimates, and to fully compare and analyze all of your various options so that you can determine the best overall strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry