Hi Larry, I have a question on retroactive benefits. My husband, now age 68, claimed his SS benefit at age 66. I’m age 67, retired last year, and I have decided to file a Restricted Application to claim a spousal benefit now and switch to my own higher benefit at age 70. Is there any disadvantage for me to claim a six-month retroactive benefit for my spousal benefit? I have read some of your guidance from earlier this year to use caution with a retroactive claim for a person’s own benefit, but is there much risk with a late claim for a spousal benefit? Thanks. Leslie

Hi Leslie,

No, if you're currently age 67 your spousal rate would be the same whether you start drawing now or 6 months retroactively. Spousal benefits do not accrue delayed retirement credits if you wait past your full retirement age to start drawing them, so it sounds like you'd want to file for spousal benefits ASAP and claim full retroactivity.

Best, Jerry