Hi, I have 2 questions............. I will be 66 in Aug., 2017 and am considering filing a restricted application for spousal benefits. I understand that the spousal benefit is 50% of my husband's PIA, but how do I find out what his PIA is? Will SSA give me an estimate prior to applying? My husband began collecting his benefits at age 62 in 2012 so do I figure out what his PIA is based on the fact that his benefit when he first began receiving is 75% of his PIA?
Also, if I file a restricted application for spousal benefits does that mean I will be required to switch over at age 70 to the benefit amt based on my work, or can I decline to do that (in case my benefit amount is less.)

Hi,

Social Security should be able to tell you how much you would receive when you file for spousal benefits, but you can get a fairly good idea by doing the math yourself. If your husband started drawing his benefits right when he turned age 62, your unreduced spousal rate would be about 2/3rds of his benefit amount (before any withholdings).

If you file a restricted application for spousal benefits only at full retirement age, you are not required to ever file for benefits on your own record, and there would likely be no point in doing so unless your own rate would be higher at some point in time.

Best, Jerry