I turn 66 on 12/29/2017. My husband turns 66 on 2/15/2018. We have been advised to file for my retirement benefit in 12/2018 and my husband to file a Restricted Application to receive a spousal benefit, also in 12/2018. I get the strategy but why would we wait until 12/2018? When would be the optimum time to file?
Thanks for clarifying.

Hi,

The only potential reason for waiting until 12/2018 to file would be that it would increase your monthly benefit rate by 8% as a result of delayed retirement credits (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/delayret.html). That may not be your best strategy, though, depending on your and your husband's relative benefit rates.

You and your husband should strongly consider using the maximization software available on this website in order to compare your options and determine your best overall filing strategy.

Best, Jerry