Born June 1955 and spouse born May 1956. Both intend to file at 70. In June 2025 (at 70) can my spouse (then 69) file for spousal benefits (50% of my PIA) and the following year when she turns 70 switch to her maximum amount of direct retirement credits which I think is larger than the spousal benefit?

Hi. Sorry, but no. Only people who were born prior to January 2 1954 are allowed to apply for spousal benefits without being deemed to also be filing for their own benefits at the same time. You and your wife may want to consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze the options available to you in order to determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry