How Married Retirees Can Increase Social Security Benefits: Smart Claiming Strategies

Married retirees can increase Social Security by applying smart claiming rules. Learn spousal benefit strategies and retirement tips to boost income.

Many married retirees don’t realize that applying specific Social Security claiming rules to their situation could result in a higher benefit for one or both spouses. With thoughtful timing and coordination, couples can often extract more lifetime income from Social Security than if each spouse claims independently.

Start with the basics: full retirement age (FRA), claiming early, and delaying benefits. Claiming before FRA reduces monthly benefits, while delaying past FRA increases benefits up to age 70 through delayed retirement credits. For couples, the combination matters: the higher earner’s decision affects spousal and survivor benefits, and a carefully chosen claiming strategy can produce a higher combined payout over time.

Spousal and survivor benefits are key tools for married retirees. A lower-earning spouse may be entitled to a spousal benefit equal to a percentage of the higher earner’s primary insurance amount (PIA). If the higher earner delays until 70, the spouse’s eventual survivor benefit—paid if one spouse dies—will also be larger. In some cases, one spouse claims a reduced benefit early while the higher earner delays, balancing present income needs with future higher payouts.

Be aware that some specialized claiming options exist but are limited by eligibility rules and legislative changes. Historical strategies like restricted applications worked for certain birth years; however, rules have changed over time. Always verify current Social Security Administration (SSA) rules before assuming a strategy applies to your situation.

Other factors that affect whether you can achieve a higher benefit include continuing work, pension offsets (for government pensions), taxes on benefits, and Medicare premiums. Earnings may reduce benefits if you claim early and are still working, while higher combined retirement income can push Social Security benefits into taxable territory.

Action steps: run multiple claiming scenarios using SSA calculators or reputable retirement planning tools, consider the longevity of both spouses, and consult a licensed financial planner or the SSA for personalized guidance. Small timing changes often make a meaningful difference in lifetime income.

Applying the right rules and coordinating claims can lead to a higher benefit for some married retirees. Take the time to model options now so you and your spouse can make a confident, informed decision about when and how to claim Social Security.

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