Ask Larry

Hi - Both spouses were born in 1952. Let's say the wife files at full retirement age and the husband files a restricted application and takes spousal benefits. Later on, when the husband reaches 70 and takes his own benefits, can the wife switch to spousal benefits if it is higher?

Hi,

The wife in your scenario could not switch to spousal benefits, but she could potentially become eligible for additional spousal benefits when her husband files. A spouse's benefit rate is calculated at 50% of the worker's full retirement age benefit rate (PIA) minus the spouse's own PIA. That difference can then be added to the spouse's own benefit payment, potentially increasing their combined payment rate to 50% of their spouse's PIA.

Best, Jerry