4 years ago, both age 67 then, we took advantage of wife claiming her benefit, husband claimed spousal to take advantage of credits to age 70. It's now time to change that to husband claiming own benefit, wife changing from "own" to spousal to maximize total benefit for couple. I understand husband files an application to claim his own benefit but what/how does wife make request for change from "own benefit" to spousal? Thank you!

Hi,

Your wife will need to file an application in order to become entitled to spousal benefits. Just to clarify, though, your wife can't 'switch' from drawing her own benefits to drawing spousal benefits instead. What she would applying for is a partial, or excess, spousal benefit to be paid in addition to her own benefit. Your wife will only qualify for an excess spousal benefit if 50% of your primary insurance amount (PIA) is higher than her own PIA, and she can't qualify for spousal benefits at least until you start drawing your benefits. A person's PIA is equal to their Social Security retirement benefit rate if they start drawing their benefits at full retirement age (FRA).

Social Security's website claims that they are constantly expanding their online services, but people currently can't apply for spousal benefits online if they're already drawing their own benefits. So, when you apply for your benefits your wife will likely need to apply for spousal benefits by phone, or in person if Social Security's offices have reopened by then.

Best, Jerry