Social Security Spousal Benefits: 3 Things All Retired Couples Should Know

Retirement benefits may be the most familiar form of social security, but there are many different types of benefits available. Married couples may be entitled to extra money each month through spousal benefits. The average spouse of a retired worker earns just over $900 a month, according to data from the Social Security Administration as of August 2024, so it’s worth getting this type of benefit.

Not everyone qualifies for spousal benefits, and there are several factors that will determine how much you might receive. Here are three things all couples need to know right now.

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1. There are strict eligibility requirements

To qualify for Spousal Social Security, you must be married to someone who is entitled to receive retirement or disability benefits. Generally, you must be at least 62 years old to file. If you are looking after a child who is either disabled or under the age of 16, you can start claiming at any age.

If your spouse is eligible for Social Security but hasn’t applied yet, you’ll have to wait until he or she applies before you can start receiving spousal benefits — even if you’re over 62.

While spousal benefits are only for married couples, in the event of a divorce, you may still qualify for payments. Divorce benefits are available to those who are currently unmarried, aged at least 62 and have been married for at least 10 years. No one plans to get divorced, but it’s still wise to know your options if you’re relying on spousal benefits.

2. You can get spousal benefits regardless of your work history

If you qualify for spousal or divorce benefits, the most you can receive is 50% of your spouse’s or ex-spouse’s full benefit — or the amount he or she will receive at full retirement age. You may receive spousal benefits even if you have never worked, but if you qualify for retirement benefits based on your work history, you will only receive the higher of the two amounts.

For example, let’s say you qualify for $800 per month in retirement benefits based on your career earnings, while your spouse will collect $2,000 per month at full retirement age. Your maximum spousal benefit in this case would be $1,000 per month. Because that’s more than your $800 monthly payment, that’s how much you’ll get — not $1,800 a month.

3. Your age will affect the amount of your benefit

To receive the maximum spousal or divorce benefit, you will need to wait until full retirement age to file. This is age 67 for everyone born in 1960 or later, or between 66 and 67 for those born before 1960.

If you file before your full retirement age, you will receive a reduced payment that will last for the rest of your life. Also, unlike retirement benefits, delaying your claim past retirement age will not increase your payout. While you can wait until later in life to file, there is no financial incentive to do so.

Spousal benefits can go a long way in retirement, so it pays to maximize them. By understanding the eligibility requirements and the rules about how much you will receive, you can head into your senior years as prepared as possible.