In 2019 (age 71) I received SS benefits totaling $42,558. My wife (age 69) received SS benefits totaling $17,154. Over the years she earned far less than I did, so we filed for her to receive SS benefits based on my earnings. I understood she would receive 50% of my benefits. If this is correct, she should have received SS benefits in 2019 totaling $21,279. Is my assumption wrong?

Hi,

Sorry, but yes your assumption is wrong. Your wife's maximum spousal benefit rate would be equal to 50% of your primary insurance amount (PIA), not 50% of your age 70 rate that includes delayed retirement credits (DRC). A person's PIA is equal to the amount of their Social Security retirement benefit if they start drawing at full retirement age (FRA).

However, if you die before your wife she could be paid a survivor rate equal to 100% of your full benefit rate inclusive of the DRCs you earned by waiting past FRA to start drawing your benefits.

Best, Jerry