I am Canadian (with permanent residence status since 2003) living with my husband in U.S.A. We moved here in December 1996. I have never worked in American but am eligible for SS spousal benefits. We are considering retiring in Canada in 3 years when my husband reaches FRA. He is naturalized. He will apply for SS before we leave America. I know that I can receive spousal benefits while living in Canada because of certain Canada/U.S.A. Agreements. My question is. Do I have to apply for spousal benefits "before" I leave American. Or am I able to apply for spousal benefits "after" I return to and am living in Canada?

Hi. You can do it either way. For information about filing for U.S. Social Security benefits while living in Canada, refer to the following Social Security publication: https://www.ssa.gov/international/Agreement_Pamphlets/canada.html#claims.

The timing of when you and your husband should claim your benefits depends on numerous different variables, so the two of you should strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully compare and analyze all of your options so that you can determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry