Should Husband and wife file as two incomes for SSI gains in a self employed business? I have always filed jointly with one income.

[Opus 17]

I think she can take social security at her full retirement age even if it is before your full retirement age, but her benefit may be reduced.  Spousal social security benefits is very complicated and you will need to talk to a financial planner.

[jay628]

You mean two of you can collect social security benefits at the same time? Or are we talking about just the medical part at the same time or do you both get monthly payments?

[Opus 17]

I don't know.  

Here are some links

<a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.schwab.com/resource-center/insights/content/yes-there-are-retirement-benefits-for-a-non-...>

<a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/yourspouse.html">https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/yourspouse....>

I just skimmed them, but it appears that if you wait until you are both at full retirement age, your spouse gets a benefit equal to 50% of your benefit (so together, you get 150% of your benefit).  But if either of you file early, the benefits are reduced (but you get them for longer, so it may still be to your long term advantage).

As I said, this really needs help from a financial planner who specializes in retirement.

[jay628]

Thank You!