My wife will be 62 next month (DOB 7-11-58). I just turned (DOB 5-22-53). We would like to have her claim for benefits next month ($888) and me apply for spousal benefits the following month. Then when I turn 68 next year I would file for my benefits ((PIA $2802) and she would file for spousal. Does this make sense and does it violate any social security rules?

Hi,

The plan you propose doesn't violate any rules, but it might not be your best possible option. Your wife could claim her Social Security retirement benefits effective as early as August 2020. She wouldn't be eligible for benefits for July because a person must be age 62 for at least a full month to qualify. If she files effective with August, you could file just for spousal benefits effective with that same month. Only people who were born prior to January 2 1954 are allowed to file only for spousal benefits without being deemed to file for their own benefits, so you meet the requirement.

Assuming that your wife files this year and you file for spousal benefits, you may want to strongly consider letting your benefit rate grow until age 70 before switching to your own account. That would provide you with your highest possible monthly benefit rate, and it could also provide your wife with her highest possible survivor rate if you die before her. You and your wife should strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully compare all of your various options so that you can determine the best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry