I will turn 70 on Dec. 8, 2017. I am currently receiving a spousal benefit based on my wife's full SS benefit, which started in Feb., 2017. What is the procedure for switching my spousal benefit to my full benefit on Dec. 8, and for switching my wife's current benefit to a spousal benefit based on my full benefit, which will be higher than her current benefit?
Hi,
You and your wife will need to file applications for retirement benefits and spousal benefits, respectively. You will likely want to elect December 2017 as your month of election to start your retirement benefits, which in turn would make that the earliest month that your wife could claim spousal benefits on your record. You will need to file your applications either by phone or in person, since Social Security's online application process can't handle claims from people who are currently receiving benefits.
Best, Jerry