Full question: My wife, a retired teacher with a pension of $5000 a month, turned 62 in September last year. Could she claim her benefit now and then convert to a higher spousal benefit in 2028 when I turn 67?

Hello,

When your wife files for benefits, she will be deemed to be filing for all the benefits she is entitled to at that time. If she files now, she is not yet eligible for spousal benefits (based on your earnings record) since you have not started collecting your retirement benefits. In 2028, when you file at age 67, she would then be eligible for a spousal “top-off” amount if her own benefit amount is less than the spousal amount.

For personalized support, you can work with an RSSA here.

Take care,
Martha

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