Social Security spousal benefits can provide a significant boost to your retirement income, even if you have never worked. In 2024, the average spouse of a retired worker collects around $910 per month in benefits. To qualify for spousal benefits, you must be married to someone who is entitled to either retirement or disability benefits.
You’ll also need to have been married for at least one year before you can begin claiming. Divorced spouses can also receive benefits based on a former partner’s work record if they were married for at least 10 years and are not currently married. In general, you’ll need to wait until age 62 to begin claiming either spousal or divorce benefits.
However, if you’re caring for your spouse’s child who is under age 16 or has a disability, you can file for spousal benefits at any age. To receive the full benefit you’re entitled to, you’ll need to wait until your full retirement age (FRA) to begin claiming. Filing earlier than your FRA will permanently reduce your monthly payment.
Maximizing Social Security for spouses
Unlike standard retirement benefits, waiting until after your FRA to file will not earn you larger checks each month. If you’ve worked long enough to qualify for your own retirement benefits, it could affect your spousal payments.
The maximum you can receive in spousal or divorce benefits is 50% of the amount your partner will receive at their FRA. If your own retirement benefit is higher than that, it will disqualify you from other types of Social Security. It’s important to note that if your spouse passes away, you’ll no longer qualify for spousal or divorce benefits.
However, you can often begin claiming survivor benefits instead. Most spouses will qualify for this type of benefit, and sometimes divorced spouses, as well as other family members, are eligible too. By understanding the eligibility rules and planning around your FRA, you can maximize your Social Security spousal benefits and secure a more comfortable retirement.
If you think you might qualify, it’s best to contact your local Social Security office to find out how much you could collect.
