Is restricted application going away?
Also, I have made more than my wife. We are both turning 66 this year (our FRA). Can she file and I take a spousal benefit, while I wait to file at 70?
Fred

Hi Fred,

No, not entirely. For example, people born prior to January 2 1954 can still file a restricted application for spousal benefits only at their full retirement age (FRA) and allow their own benefit rate to grow until age 70. And, regardless of a person's birthdate they could potentially file a restricted application for survivor benefits only while allowing their own retirement rate to grow until age 70.

Since both you and your wife were born prior to January 2 1954, one or the other of you could file for your retirement benefits in order to allow the other of you to file a restricted application for spousal benefits only starting at their FRA. Whether or not that's your best strategy depends on a number of variables, however, so you should strongly consider using our maximization software to compare your options before deciding what to do about claiming your benefits.

Best, Jerry