Can my spouse collect their own retirement benefit at FRA and later switch to a higher spousal benefit once I begin collecting?
Full question: Is there any penalty if my spouse begins collecting their Social Security Benefit at FRA, while I wait to turn 70 and then apply for the spousal benefit (presuming 50% is larger than theirs)? Hello there, Yes, a retiree can collect their own retirement benefit at any time age 62 or later. Once…
Read MoreIf a spouse collects their own retirement benefit at 62, can they switch to a spousal benefit later?
Full question: Hello Martha and Happy Safe New Year. My wife turned 62 in Jan 2022 and is entitled to receive $644 if we elect to start then. Under Spousal benefits, she would receive $1,008 if I were receiving my benefits. I am turning 65 this July 2022 and haven’t filed to collect yet, waiting…
Read MoreCan I collect a spousal benefit at age 62 and then delay and switch to my own benefit at my full retirement age?
Hello, If you are eligible for more than one Social Security benefit, when you apply you will be “deemed to be filing” for all the benefits you are eligible to collect and you will receive the higher amount. This means that you cannot take one benefit and delay collecting the other. You will receive your…
Read MoreWhen I switch from my husband’s survivor benefits to my own retirement benefit, will a month of payment be withheld?
Full question: I’m switching from my husband’s survivor benefits to my own and I want to know if they’re going to withhold a month. Hi there, No. When you switch from a survivor benefit to your own retirement benefit, the Social Security Administration will not withhold a month of payment. Take care, Martha
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