Ask Larry

Can my wife take benefits from my social security at 62 if I am not collecting my social security?

Hi. The only way that your wife could be paid benefits for months that you aren't collecting your benefits is if a) you've applied for and been approved for Social Security retirement or disability benefits, and b) your benefits are suspended for reasons other than your work and earnings. For example, the spouse of a worker who is entitled to Social Security benefits but whose benefits are suspended because they are in prison could potentially be paid spousal benefits even though the worker's benefits are suspended (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.03/handbook-0305.html).

Best, Jerry