Ask Larry

Can My Wife Apply For Her Own Benefits Online?

My wife at age 66 (her FRA) filed a "restricted spousal only" application in 2018. That process went very well and she has been receiving 1/2 of my PIA since that filing. She turns 70 in 2022 and we want to file then for her own full benefit which will be more than 1/2 of my PIA. Does she need to file at a Social Security office or can that be done online via the SSA site. What info will be needed and if at the SSA office does she need an appointment. Thank you in advance

Hi. Nothing on Social Security's website indicates that your wife couldn't use online filing to apply for her own benefits, so she should probably try that first. If that doesn't work and if Social Security's offices are still closed when you wife applies, her only other option would be to apply by phone. She can make an appointment to do that by calling 800-772-1213. You can find more information about filing options on the following Social Security website: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/apply.html#h2.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Sep 3 2021 - 1:05pm
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.