Full question: I understand my wife can receive half my Social Security benefit, as her Social Security benefit. For her to receive the maximum amount this does she need to wait until her FRA? I am 3.5 years older than her and will reach my FRA mid-2023. Thanks.

Hello,

If your wife is not entitled to her own retirement benefit, or if her retirement benefit amount is less than the spousal benefit amount, then yes, she is entitled to a spousal benefit once you start collecting your retirement benefit.

The amount of the spousal benefit is based on the age she collects it and will not be greater than 50% of your Primary Insurance Amount, PIA, (the benefit you are entitled to at your FRA) IF she collects it at her own FRA or older. If she collects it at a younger age. it will be reduced.

For more personalized recommendations, speak with an expert here.

Take care,
Martha

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