Social Security in the United States provides benefits not only to workers who have paid into the system but also to their spouses. These benefits, known as “spousal benefits,” are designed to offer additional financial security to families. If you have ever wondered what Social Security benefits are for spouses or how a “spousal benefit” works, this article will explain everything to you.
What are Social Security spousal benefits?
Spousal benefits allow the spouse (wife/husband) of a worker who has paid into the Social Security system to receive a portion of that worker’s retirement benefits, even if the spouse has never worked or has not accumulated enough credits toward his or her retirement benefits.
Who is eligible for spousal benefits?
To be eligible for spousal benefits, the following conditions must be met:
Spouses and ex-spouses
- You must be married to a person who is eligible to receive Social Security retirement or disability benefits.
- To be eligible, the working spouse must have applied for his or her benefits.
- You must be at least 62 years old, or care for a child under 16 or a disabled child who receives benefits from the worker.
- Former spouses who were married for at least 10 years, as well as some valid non-marital legal relationships, may be eligible.
Children
Children may be eligible if they are not married and have:
- 17 years or younger.
- 18 to 19 years old and attending school (K–12) full-time.
- Any age if they developed a disability at age 21 or younger.
Under certain circumstances, they may also pay benefits to married children, stepchildren, adopted children, grandchildren, and stepgrandchildren.
Benefit amount
The spousal benefit can be up to 50% of the worker’s full benefit, known as the “primary benefit.” However, the exact amount of the benefit can vary depending on several factors:
1. Age of spouse
- Full retirement age: If you claim benefits at your full retirement age (which ranges from 66 to 67, depending on your birth year), you will receive 50% of your spouse’s full retirement benefit.
- Before full retirement age: If you decide to start receiving benefits before your full retirement age (age 62 or older), the amount will be permanently reduced.
- After Full Retirement Age: There is no increase in spousal benefits if you choose to delay your application beyond full retirement age.
Example
If your spouse’s primary benefit is $2,000 a month, and you claim the benefit at your full retirement age, you could receive $1,000 a month. If you start receiving benefits at age 62, the amount will be less, depending on the number of months before full retirement age.
Benefits for divorced spouses
A divorced spouse may also be eligible for benefits, as long as:
- The marriage has lasted at least 10 years.
- The applicant is not currently married.
- The working spouse must be at least 62 years old.
- The applicant must be at least 62 years old.
Benefits for divorced spouses do not affect the benefits of the working spouse or his or her new spouse if he or she has remarried.
If you are eligible for your retirement benefits and also for a spousal benefit, Social Security will pay your benefit first. If your spousal benefit is higher, you will receive a combination of both benefits that equals the higher amount.
How to apply for social security benefits for spouses
To apply for spousal benefits, you can:
- Visit the Social Security website.
- Call the toll-free Social Security number.
- Visit a local Social Security office.
Finally, remember that Social Security spousal benefits are an important part of the U.S. retirement system, providing financial security for families. Understanding spousal benefit rules and requirements can help you maximize your benefits. Consider speaking with a financial advisor to explore all of your options and plan your retirement effectively.
