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October 10, 2017
Category:
Can I File Just For Spousal Benefits Even If My Own Benefit Rate Would Be Higher Than My Spousal Rate?
My wife and I both have earning records that allow each of us to receive individual SS benefits. My wife turned 66 in March of 2017 and began collecting her FRA benefit. I will turn 66 in February of 2018 and plan to delay my own benefit until age 70. In the meantime, I am planning to file a restricted application to receive a spousal benefit based on her current FRA benefit. If my projected FRA benefit is higher than the benefit she is now receiving, will I qualify to receive the spousal benefit?
Hi,
Yes, since you were born prior to January 2 1954 you can file just for spousal benefits only at age 66 and allow your own benefit rate to grow until age 70. The amount that you could receive as a spouse at age 66 is 50% of your wife's full retirement age rate (PIA).
Best, Jerry