What does the term "Claim and Suspend" refer to?

The term "Claim and Suspend" specifically refers to a strategy where an individual files for Social Security retirement benefits but then immediately suspends the receipt of those benefits. This allows the individual to earn “delayed retirement credits,” which can increase the amount of benefits they will receive when they eventually choose to claim them.

By filing and then suspending, the primary claimant enables their family members, such as a spouse or dependents, to begin receiving benefits based on their work record while the individual’s own benefits increase. This approach can enhance the overall Social Security benefits received by a family over time.

The other choices do not accurately describe what "Claim and Suspend" entails. The option about claiming benefits and stopping them indefinitely does not capture the mechanism of allowing others to receive benefits during the suspension. Similarly, claiming benefits under a spousal application doesn't relate to the suspension aspect, and suspending all retirement benefits implies a broader action that doesn't align with the targeted strategy of maximizing future benefits while allowing current advantages for dependents.