I'm 55 years old with a good career hoping to work till at least 67 but likely 70. My spouse is turning 67 soon and has to decide whether to take social security or wait till 70. My estimated payouts are a lot higher than my spouses. Is there any option for my spouse to claim spousal social security benefits from my contributions and projected benefits? I thought I read somewhere that my spouse could claim 50% of my estimated benefits instead of my spouses own benefits. Is this or something similar possible while I am still working and not retired yet? Thanks!!

Hi,

No, your wife can't get spousal benefits on your record until you start drawing either disability or retirement benefits on your record.

If 50% of your full retirement age rate (PIA) will be higher than your wife's own retirement rate at age 70, then it would likely be best for her to start drawing her benefits ASAP. Otherwise, a case could likely be made for either waiting until age 70 to start drawing or filing sooner. The two of you should strongly consider using the maximization software on this website to compare your filing options and determine your best overall strategy.

Best, Jerry