IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF 2 CURRENT SOCIAL SECURITY CLAIMING STRATEGIES
TWO SOCIAL SECURITY STRATEGIES FOR MARRIED COUPLES ENDING
- “File and suspend”: one spouse files for benefits but suspends collecting them until full retirement age
- Filing a restricted claim for spousal benefits: collecting half of spouse’s benefits while waiting to collect full benefits in later years
WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY
- 62 or older by year-end
- Retain right to collect spousal benefits starting at 66 = full retirement age
- Spouse has to have claimed retirement benefits or requested to file & suspend benefits within 6 month window
Source: Mary Beth Franklin, Author
Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits