SS: Spousal Benefits?

[Jake46]

I am 64, retired and will applying for Social Security retirement benefits in the next few months. My wife is a 45 year-old homemaker and we have an 11 year-old daughter. I believe that my spouse will be entitled to *caretaker spouse and children’s benefits." If that is true, can I apply for those at the time I apply for SS or does she have to apply on her own? If she applies, does she file under her SS number? Thanks.

 

[rescueme]

Here's the answer to your question (with SAA references):

Bogleheads :: View topic - SS: Spousal Benefits

 

[REWahoo]

If that is true, can I apply for those at the time I apply for SS or does she have to apply on her own? If she applies, does she file under her SS number? Thanks.

Not sure about the eligibility question but if so I'm reasonably sure she has to file and has to use her SS#. The SSA is very particular about who may file on another individual's behalf.