Ask Larry

Can My Wife Collect A Larger Benefit When I Start Collecting My Benefits?

My wife currently collects a small disability benefit from Social Security. Once I start collecting at FRA, can she file to collect a larger benefit based on my larger earnings record? She is 7 years younger than me, so what age should she wait until?

Hi. Your wife would need to be at least age 62 or have an eligible child in her care to potentially be able to qualify for spousal benefits when you start drawing your benefits. And, assuming that your wife doesn't have an eligible child in her care and if she claims spousal benefits prior to her full retirement age (FRA), her spousal rate would be reduced for age.

As for when your wife should claim spousal benefits if she does qualify for them, that depends on a number of factors. You should strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze the options available to you and your wife in order to determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Jul 27 2021 - 12:59pm
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.