Ask Larry

Can I File On My Own Record At Age 66 And Switch To My Husband's Record At Age 69?

I am 64 in 2016 and married more than 10 years. Will I still be able to claim my own Social Security benefits when I am 66 and switch to my husband's at age 69 when he turns 66.

Hi,

Well, not exactly. You could start your own benefit at 66, which is your full retirement age, then file for an excess spousal benefit whenever your husband applies. The resulting total benefit would the higher of your own benefit amount, or one-half of your husband's full retirement age benefit.

There may be several better filing options available to you and your husband, though, so you may wish to consider running the maximization software available on this website.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Aug 22 2016 - 11:15am
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