Expert: Darlene Oldendick - 9/21/2009

Question
I began drawing Railroad Retirement spousal benefits at age 62 (my s.s. benefit was about $100 less.) I am currently 65 and getting a R.R. spousal benefit of $727. My husband, age 72 is now drawing Social Security benefits of $2305 (including his delayed credits. Social Security tells me that if I file before my FRA I must take my own benefits. They also say at FRA I could receive a spousal benefit of $869 for 4 years and then file for my own delayed credits at 70. My own benefit at 65 is $852. I am very confused. I filed online for my benefits and then revoked it.  Is there a way I could receive more that $727 right now or is Social Security giving me correct information.

Answer
If you file for Social Security benefits before your FRA, you must file for both your own Social Security and your spouse's benefit if it would pay a higher benefit. Basically what they told you is correct, but your husband's benefit seems quite high so I do not know if yours would ever exceed even if you waited and earned all of your delayed retirement credits.  I guess your RR spousal benefit is reduced by your Social Security.

This is quite complicated.  If you would like to talk with me by telephone, you can reach me at 513-860-5924 EST.