My wife will be 67 in March 2017 and has just applied online to start receiving benefits at that time. I turn 66 (FRA) in October 2017. At that time, I plan to file a restricted application for spousal benefits and wait until I turn 70 to collect my own benefit.

When I file a restricted application for spousal benefits as we approach October, is it best to file online or must I go into an office? I would prefer to file online and if that's possible can you advise how to be sure I'm getting what I want. And if I need to go into an office, is there a sample application so I know that the agent is doing the right thing? When should I start the application process for spousal benefits?

Thanks!

Hi,

You can file for spousal benefits online, by phone or in person. As far as I know, there is no available sample of the online application, nor of the application completed by the Social Security representatives when you file by phone or in person. You can apply up to 4 months prior to the month you want to start benefits, which would be October 2017 unless you were born on October 1st 1951, in which case it would be September 2017.

One very important point is to make sure that your application is restricted to spousal benefits only. If you file online and the application asks you if you want your application to be considered as an application for retirement benefits on your own record, say no. Also, in the remarks section of the application, you should add a statement such as: 'I wish to restrict this application to spousal benefits only.', or 'I wish to restrict retirement benefits on my own record from the scope of this application.' If you file by phone or in person, make sure to review your copy of the application to make sure that the application contains a similar remark.

Best, Jerry