The One Thing Every Married Couple Should Decide Before Age 62
Confused by Social Security?
There is one question every married couple must answer before they reach age 62: “Which spouse is the higher earner?” This seems simple—yet it determines almost everything.
The Higher Earner Should Almost Never File Early
Why? Because it reduces long-term income, survivor protection, and the value of delayed credits. Delaying protects the entire household.
Married?
Let’s determine your household strategy before one of you files too early.
The Lower Earner’s Filing Age Is More Flexible
The lower earner may file early or at FRA. This creates early cash flow while the higher benefit grows.
About Author
Ray R. Harris
Ray R. Harris, RSSA®, partners with tax and legal professionals to provide specialized Social Security claiming analysis for high-net-worth clients aged 58–70. A former executive with an MBA and background in Finance, Ray mitigates liability for his partners by ensuring their clients optimize spousal benefits, tax efficiency, and lifetime income.
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