hey, can I file for SS spousal benefits at age 62 ( I'm 61 now/dob 12/57) and then switch to my own SS benefits at a later date without penalty/reduction at wife's death or my full retirement age ?

Hi,

No. Since you were born after January 1 1954 you'll be deemed to be filing for both spousal benefits and for retirement benefits on your own record whenever you file for either one. So, if you file at age 62 you'll just receive essentially the higher of your own rate or your spousal rate, and your benefit rate will be reduced for age.

Regardless of when you start drawing benefits as a spouse or on your own record, though, it wouldn't have any effect on the survivor rate that you could potentially receive on a deceased spouse's record. In most cases, the surviving member of a couple receives the higher of their own retirement benefit rate or their spouse's benefit rate. However, the benefit rate can be reduced for age if the survivor is not yet full retirement age when they start drawing survivor benefits.

You should strongly consider using our maximization software to explore and compare your filing options in order to determine the best overall strategy for you and your spouse.

Best, Jerry