Larry

I am currently 64. I plan on delaying my social security benefits until 70. My FRA is 66. My ex spouse is 3 years younger than I and should be will be eligible for spousal benefits. What 50% spousal benefit is she entitled too, my FRA amount or my 70 benefit amount? Thank you for considering my question.

Hi,

Your ex-spouse could potentially receive up to 50% of your full retirement age rate (PIA), not 50% of your age 70 rate. If you die first, though, your ex-spouse could receive up to 100% of your age 70 rate if you wait until then to start drawing. However, if your ex started drawing benefits before his or her full retirement age (FRA) the benefit rate would be reduced for age.

If your ex-spouse is insured for benefits on their own work record, you may be able to draw divorced spousal benefits at FRA and allow your own rate to grow until age 70. You may want to use the maximization software available on this website in order to explore all of your filing options and determine your best strategy.

Best, Jerry