The Question
Can I file on my husbands SS benefits if his is larger than mine? He has made a lot more than me in his working lifetime. I will be 65 in May and he will be 70 and has already started drawing his. We are both still working fulltime. My FRA is 66 and 8 months.
While you can certainly can claim on your Husband’s earning record, there a few things to bear in mind.
While you are working, you can receive Social Security benefits, however your benefits can be reduced if you earn more than $21,240.
Here’s how it works: For every $2 over the limit, your benefit will be reduced by $1. The year you reach full retirement age, you’ll have an earnings limit of $56,520, and for every $3 over the limit, your benefits will be reduced by $1.
It’s also important to keep in mind that Social Security benefits CAN be taxable, based on your “provisional income calculation” – you’ll add ½ of your Social Security (you + spouse) + any other income.
If less than $32,000, your Social Security won’t be included in your taxable income, from $32,000-$44,000 up to 50% is included in your taxable income, and above $44,000, up to 85% is included in your taxable income at ordinary income rates (like your regular w2 earnings).
Ian Weiner, CFP®
Owner, Lead Planner at Bespoke Wealth Solutions
Bentonville, AR
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