Dear sir. I have a question about spousal benefits. My wife and I are of the same age. Since I earned more than my wife, she will get more benefits if she claim spousal benefits. Can she claim spousal benefits say when she is 62 while I delay my filing till my FRA of 66-1/2, or do we have to file together if she wants to file for spousal benefits? (She actually can file for her own benefits, but is only somewhat less than spousal benefits). Thanks.

Hi,

No, you must be receiving benefits on your record in order for your wife to receive spousal benefits. However, she could file for reduced benefits on her own account as early as age 62 even if you haven't applied, and then file for an excess spousal benefit on your account when you file.

If either of you reached age 62 prior to January 2 2016, the best strategy may be for one of you to file for spousal benefits only at full retirement age, then switch to their own account at age 70. There are numerous possible options, though, so you may wish to consider running the maximization software available on this website in order to determine the best option for you and your wife.

Best, Jerry