I’m a bit confused around the SS max benefit. In 2019, the max is $2861. When I use the benefit estimator on ssa.gov, at FRA, I see a benefit of $3015/mth. It is not additional income projected from now to FRA as I run the estimate with $0 as income from my retirement age. Either some estimate of COLA is included or there is a table for the max benefit with yearly increases built in. Any ideas for the discrepancy.
Also, as I look at my claiming strategy on opensocial security.com, the model returns an optimum strategy for my spouse to claim at 62 (minimal income over working career) then filing for the spousal benefit when I claim. If she does claim in this manner, will it reduce her total benefit including spousal when I file?
Thanks so much for your wisdom!
Also, as I look at my claiming strategy on opensocial security.com, the model returns an optimum strategy for my spouse to claim at 62 (minimal income over working career) then filing for the spousal benefit when I claim. If she does claim in this manner, will it reduce her total benefit including spousal when I file?
Thanks so much for your wisdom!