Ask Larry

Does My Husband Have To Suspend His Benefit In Order For Me To Receive Spousal Benefits?

It has been our plan for me to take my spousal benefit at age 66. A financial advisor recommended this after using your calculations. I have been reading "Get what's yours" and am confused. If I were to take 1/2 (approximately) of his Social Security at 66,( the spousal benefit, correct?)does he have to suspend taking his SocialSecurity? He's been retired since age 62, five years.

Hi,

No, spousal benefits are an auxiliary benefit paid in addition to the worker's own benefit.

Your plan sounds fine, but you may want to use the maximization software available on this website to make sure that you choose the best possible filing strategy.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Sep 26 2017 - 10:58am
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.