Ask Larry

My wife is 62 and has low earnings and will apply for social security on her own record and receive 727 per month.
I am 59 and will wait until age 70 to take my full benefit, can she take spousal benefits after I turn mine on at age 70?
Thanks

Hi,

Potentially, yes. She could get an excess spousal benefit on your record when you apply, but only if 1/2 of your full retirement age benefit amount (PIA) is higher than her own PIA. Here's an example:

Jane's full retirement age benefit amount (PIA) is $950. She starts drawing own her own account at age 62 and receives a reduced benefit of $720. Eleven years later, Jane's husband John files for his benefits at age 70. John's PIA is $2000, but his monthly payment is $2560 including delayed retirement credits. Jane files for spousal benefits on John's account, and is eligible for $50 (i.e. $2000/2 - $950), which is added to her reduced retirement benefits of $720 to give her a total monthly benefit of $770.

Best, Jerry