Should My Older Spouse Start Social Security While I Keep Working for the Railroad?

Railroad Retirement Mailbag: How a Spouse’s Early Social Security Affects Future Railroad Retirement Benefits

Welcome back to the Highball Advisors Railroad Retirement Mailbag! Today’s question comes from Sam B., who asks:

“My wife is nine years older than I am. If she begins collecting Social Security before I retire, will that affect her Railroad Retirement benefits later, when I retire and she switches to a spouse annuity?”

This is a great question and one that comes up often for couples with an age gap. Let’s break it down.

1. Your spouse can’t start Railroad Retirement benefits until you do

Even if your wife is older, she cannot begin receiving a Railroad Retirement spousal annuity until you start your own Railroad Retirement annuity. Railroad Retirement spousal benefits are tied directly to the employee’s retirement date.

2. She can start Social Security early — but it may be reduced

Your wife is allowed to begin collecting her own Social Security retirement benefit before you retire. However, keep in mind:

• If she starts at age 62, her benefit will be permanently reduced (up to about 30%).
• Before filing, she should review her earnings record to make sure everything is accurate and to understand her projected benefit.

3. Early Social Security does not reduce her future Railroad Retirement spousal annuity

Here’s the key takeaway: Starting Social Security early does not affect the amount of her Railroad Retirement spousal annuity.

That spousal benefit is calculated solely on your Railroad Retirement earnings, not on whether she took Social Security early.

Want to learn more?

If you're navigating retirement planning as a railroad couple, check out our video “7 Railroad Retirement Quirks That Can Surprise Married Couples.” It covers several scenarios just like this one.

Thanks for reading, and keep those questions coming! Until next time—stay safe, stay on track, and take care.

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Disclaimer: This article is provided for general information and illustration purposes only. Nothing contained in the material constitutes tax advice, a recommendation for purchase or sale of any security, or investment advisory services. Highball Advisors encourages you to consult a financial planner, accountant, and/or legal counsel for advice specific to your situation. Reproduction of this material is prohibited without written permission from Highball Advisors, and all rights are reserved from Highball Advisors, and all rights are reserved.