Ask Larry

What Does My Wife Need To Do To Collect Spousal Benefits?

i just received my first SS payment. My wife took SS at 62. What does she need to do to collect spousal?

Hi. Your wife would need to file an application with Social Security in order to claim spousal benefits. She can make an appointment to apply by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213. However, your wife will only qualify for spousal benefits if 50% of your primary insurance amount (PIA) is more than her own PIA. A person's PIA is equal to their Social Security retirement benefit rate if they start drawing their benefits at full retirement age (FRA).

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Mar 10 2023 - 3:50pm
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.