I just read your book and my head is spinning and am more confused. Question: I reach FRA 66 in Sept/2018 to collect $2488. I plan on filing at FRA. My husband will reach FRA 66 in Feb 2019 to collect $2200. He plans to continue to work. Can he delay his and collect spousal off mine? If yes, approximately how much would he collect...50% or would it be less?

Hi,

Yes, if you're drawing your Social Security retirement benefits when your husband reaches age 66 he can file for spousal benefits only and allow his own benefit rate to grow until age 70. That option is available to your husband because he was born prior to January 2 1954 (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/claiming.html?intcmp=AE-RET-PLRT-REL...). And yes, in that event he would receive 50% of your full retirement age rate (PIA) as his spousal amount.

Another possible option would be for your husband to file for his retirement benefits and for you to file just for spousal benefits while letting your benefit rate grow until age 70. You and your husband should strongly consider using our maximization software to compare your various options and determine which strategy is best for the two of you.

Best, Jerry