Ask Rusty – Can I Claim My Own SS Benefit Now and Get Half of My Husband’s Benefit Later?

Social Security Matters

by Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor at the AMAC Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Association of Mature American Citizens

Dear Rusty: I would like to get an answer concerning taking my Social Security benefit soon and switching to my spouse’s benefit when he begins to take his. I am 64 years, 9 months old and my husband is 65 years, 7 months. My benefit is low due to the fact that I did not work for about 25 years while raising our children. My benefit would be $573 at age 65. My husband’s benefit at age 67 will be $3,326. My first question is: can I receive half of my husband’s benefit once he begins drawing his? Secondly, if I draw my benefit now will that reduce the amount I can draw from his benefit later? Signed: Uncertain Spouse

Dear Unc