Hi Larry,

I'm 64 . My husband is 70 and he has been collected SS benefits since age 68. I want to file for benefit but not sure to file spousal or my own. My estimated PIA will be slightly lower than my husband. if I apply for spousal benefits now and wait till my FRA (66 and 4 mo.) to switch to my personal benefits, will that be allowed? If allowed, what is the consequence?

Thanks in advance for your time. Your expertise is greatly appreciated!

Suk

Hi Suk,

No, you wouldn't be allowed to file for spousal benefits now and wait until later to draw your own benefits. Since you were born after January 1 1954, whenever you file for either your own benefits or for spousal benefits you'll be deemed to be filing for both benefits. What you would then be paid is essentially the higher of the 2 benefit amounts, and the rate will be reduced if you start drawing prior to full retirement age (FRA).

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

Best, Jerry