Reduced spouse's benefits are computed as follows:
If the total RF is 1 through 36:
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OB multiplied by (144 minus RF) then divided by 144 equals the MBA
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If the total RF is 37 through 60:
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OB multiplied by (180 minus ARM) then divided by 240 equals the MBA
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(ARM = Number of RF in excess of 36.)
Round the result down to the next dime for benefits after 5/82 and up to the next
dime for benefits prior to 6/82. If the spouse's benefit is reduced because of the
family maximum, use the reduced amount in place of the OB.
NOTE: The basic reduction for a spouse is 25/36 of one percent per month. 25/36 of one
percent is equal to 1/144. So, by multiplying the PIA by 143/144 we are in effect
reducing the PIA by 1/144. Using 142/144 for 2 RF we are reducing the PIA by 2 times
25/36 times .01%. The fraction provides both a simplified method of computing reduced
benefits and a more accurate method. The basic reduction for a spouse after the first
36 months is 5/12 of one percent. 5/12 of one percent is equal 1/240. When we multiply
the PIA by 180/240 we start with a benefit already reduced by 25%. By subtracting
1/240 for each RF after 36 we are therefore reducing the PIA by 25% plus 5/12 of one
percent for each of those months.