My wife filed for SS when she turned 66 last year. I will be turning 66 in August. I am hoping to file a restricted application, collect spousal benefits for the next four years, then begin collecting SS against my own work record when I turn 66. Will doing do prevent my wife from "switching" to spousal benefits at that time -- since my FRA is more than twice hers? Or is there any other downside to my filing a restricted application at this time?

Thanks, Keith

Hi Keith,

I assume you meant to type that you plan to start collecting benefits on your own account at age 70, not 66. Your wife couldn't 'switch' from her own account to just spousal benefits when you file on your record, but what she could do at that time is file for an excess spousal benefit. Your wife's excess spousal benefit would be equal to the difference between a) 50% of your full retirement age rate, and b) her own full retirement age rate (inclusive of delayed retirement credits, if any). The excess spousal benefit (if any) would then be paid in addition to your wife's own retirement benefits. So, if she qualifies for an excess spousal benefit and as long as she didn't start drawing her benefits prior to full retirement age (FRA), her combined benefit rate should then add up to 50% of your FRA rate.

It doesn't sound like there would be any downside to your plan, however, I don't know what other factors might be involved in your case. You should consider using our maximization software to make sure that you're choosing the best possible filing strategy.

Best, Jerry