Title: Understanding Spousal Social Security Benefits: Are You Eligible?
Spousal Social Security benefits can substantially boost a household's income, particularly in situations where one spouse has a significant earning disparity or doesn't work at all. These benefits can supplement living expenses with thousands of dollars annually. However, not everyone is eligible. To qualify, three parameters must be met:
- Your spouse must be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits
Before you can claim spousal benefits based on your spouse's work record, they must have a work history that qualifies for Social Security retirement benefits. This requires a minimum of 40 work credits, with a credit equivalent to $1,810 in 2025 earnings, and a maximum of four credits per year. Additionally, your spouse must already be collecting their retirement benefits for you to claim based on their work history.
- Meet the marriage duration requirement
Generally, you need to be married for at least 12 months to be eligible for spousal benefits on your spouse's work record. However, exceptions apply to couples with children and those who were eligible for certain Social Security benefits before marriage. Divorced spouses must have been married for at least 10 years to qualify for spousal benefits on their ex-spouse's work record. Ex-spouses can claim benefits as long as the divorce has been at least two years, whether or not the qualifying spouse collects their retirement benefits. Remarriage would result in the ex-spouse becoming ineligible for benefits on their former partner's record, but they may be entitled to benefits based on their current spouse's record.
- Your spousal benefit is larger than your own retirement benefit
The Social Security Administration pays out the higher benefit between your own retirement benefit and your spousal benefit if you're eligible for both. This saved you the hassle of determining which benefit will yield higher checks. Your eligibility for spousal benefits beyond your full retirement age (between 66 and 67 for today’s workers) may increase up to 2/3 of a percent per month until 70. However, if you claim before your full retirement age, you will face a reduction in benefits. The maximum spousal benefit is equal to half of your spouse's full retirement benefit at their full retirement age.
Need clarification on your eligibility or potential benefits? Reach out to the Social Security Administration via phone, email, or visit your local Social Security office.
After meeting the eligibility criteria, strategizing your retirement finances could involve considering spousal benefits. If your spouse's retirement income is substantial, you might be able to leverage their benefits for additional income. However, ensuring you have adequate savings in retirement, independent of spousal benefits, is crucial.
During retirement planning, exploring various finance options, such as investing in retirement accounts or considering annuities, can help bolster your retirement income alongside spousal benefits, ensuring financial security in your golden years.
