If there’s one thing that makes retirement better, it’s enjoying it with someone special.

For couples, retirement planning should be done in tandem. These Social Security tips we’re bringing you today can help couples in multiple ways.

Not only can you potentially maximize your collective earnings to enjoy more financial support, but you could also enjoy more (and better) time together.

Social Security Tips and Strategies for Couples

One of the top questions when it comes to Social Security involves the claiming age. NORA readers will know the age you choose will impact your benefit amount.

But when there are two of you, you have some options here. One helpful strategy involves determining who has the higher benefit. This person may choose to delay claiming, so they can further maximize the payment and enjoy it later. This is especially helpful if you both can live off the lower earner’s benefit and your personal savings.

Such a strategy can also maximize survivor’s benefits, as they’ll be calculated based on the larger of the two checks for the person who outlives the other. Speaking of lifespans, it’s also important to consider this factor when determining claiming age.

As we’ve discussed before, sometimes claiming earlier can be beneficial. For marriages where one partner is older than the other and will likely pass away sooner, it makes sense to take retirement early if possible, so the two of you can spend more time together and enjoy retirement as one.

For more Social Security tips that individuals, couples, and families can use, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.