My wife and I are both age 62. I would like to keep working until full retirement age (66). We have been married since 1973. Can she start taking her SS at 62 (early) for $574/mo, and then switch to her spousal benefit when I turn 66, as long as I start taking my full retirement benefit? ($2623/mo). Thank you

Hi,

No, your wife couldn't switch to your record. If she starts drawing retirement benefits before full retirement age (FRA), her benefit rate will be reduced and she will be stuck with that reduction for as long as both of you are living.

She could file for reduced benefits on her own record at age 62 and then file for an excess spousal benefit when you become entitled to your benefits. In fact, since she was born after January 1 1954, she would have no choice but to take the excess spousal benefit as soon as you apply (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/deemedfaq.html).

Here's an example: Jill is eligible for a full retirement benefit rate (PIA) of $800, but she starts drawing at age 62 and receives $600 instead. When Jill turns full retirement age, her husband files for his full retirement age rate of $2000. Jill then files for an excess spousal benefit of $200, or 50% of her husband's PIA minus her own PIA (i.e. $1000 - 800). This excess would then be added to Jill's reduced retirement rate, giving her a combined rate of $800.

You and your wife may want to consider using the maximization software available on this website in order to determine your best overall filing strategy.

Best, Jerry