I am 65 and working. My wife is 70 and started taking social security at 62. I will work until I am 70 unless my employer lets me go. When I file for my social security, can my wife apply for a spousal benefit. If so, will that be based on what my social security would be at 66 or at 70?

Thank you in advance,

Mike

Hi Mike,

Your wife could potentially receive additional benefits as a spouse when you file, but only if 50% of your full retirement age rate (PIA) is more than her own PIA.

For example, say Jane has a full retirement age rate (PIA) $800, but she starts drawing at age 62 and receives a reduced rate of $600. Jane's husband has a PIA of $2000, but he waits until age 70 to file and receives $2640. Jane would be eligible for a spousal benefit of $200 (i.e. $2000/2 - $800), which would be added to her own reduced rate of $600 to give her a combined benefit amount of $800.

Best, Jerry