My wife and I have been married for 36 years.

She is 82 and I am 61.

I have contributed maximum social security for more than 25 years.

She rarely worked outside the home and receives almost nothing. She claimed on her own earnings at the age of 68.

Can my wife claim as my spouse?

When can she claim as my spouse?

She has been a wonderful helpmate and built a great life for our family and I would like that she share some of the benefits that I have contributed.
I fear that I will survive her and she will have never enjoyed the retirement benefits from the earnings that she allowed me to gain.

Thank you,

Hi,

You must file for your benefits in order for your wife to become eligible for spousal benefits on your record. The earliest that you could be eligible for reduced retirement benefits is age 62, although if you continue working your earnings could preclude both you and your wife from receiving benefits on your record until you reach full retirement age, or at least limit the amount that you could receive. This is due to the Social Security earnings test (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/whileworking2.html).

You may want to strongly consider using the maximization software available on this website in order to determine the best filing strategy for you and your wife.

Best, Jerry