I make more than my wife. Can she claim Social Security at 62 and later switch to spousal benefits?

A common Social Security question among married couples concerns the optimization of benefits when one spouse earns significantly more. The strategy often involves the lower-earning spouse claiming their own benefits at age 62, the earliest eligibility, and then switching to a spousal benefit later, usually when the higher-earning spouse files for their own benefits, often at their full retirement age (FRA) or even later to maximize delayed retirement credits. While theoretically appealing, this specific "file and switch" strategy is no longer explicitly permitted under current Social Security rules due to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015. However, a different approach can still be effective. The lower-earning spouse can claim their own benefits at 62. When the higher-earning spouse eventually files for their benefits, the Social Security Administration will automatically evaluate if the spouse is eligible for a spousal benefit that is higher than their current individual benefit. If so, they will automatically receive the higher amount. This isn't a direct "switch" by choice, but rather an automatic adjustment if a higher spousal benefit becomes available. Investors need to understand that claiming early at 62 permanently reduces an individual's own benefit. Therefore, while receiving a spousal top-up is possible, the initial decision to claim individual benefits early has lasting implications. Couples should assess their longevity, health, and other income sources alongside Social Security projections to determine the most advantageous claiming combination. Consulting a financial advisor specializing in Social Security can clarify complex scenarios.