Spousal benefits from Social Security can significantly enhance your retirement earnings, even if you have never participated in the workforce. As of 2024, the typical spouse of a retired beneficiary receives approximately $910 monthly. To be eligible for spousal benefits, you must be married to an individual who qualifies for retirement or disability benefits.
Additionally, you need to have been married for a minimum of one year prior to claiming benefits. Divorced spouses may also be eligible for benefits based on their ex-partner’s work history, provided the marriage lasted at least 10 years and they are presently unmarried. Generally, you must wait until you reach the age of 62 to start claiming spousal or divorced benefits.
Nonetheless, if you are raising your spouse’s child who is under the age of 16 or has a disability, you can apply for spousal benefits at any age. To secure the full benefit amount to which you are entitled, it is necessary to wait until you reach your full retirement age (FRA) before you begin claiming. Filing before your FRA will lead to a permanent reduction in your monthly benefits.
Strategies to Optimize Social Security for Spouses
In contrast to regular retirement benefits, waiting to file after your FRA won’t result in larger monthly payments. If you have worked sufficiently to qualify for your own retirement benefits, this may impact your spousal benefit amounts.
The highest possible spousal or divorced benefit you can receive is limited to 50% of the amount your partner is eligible to receive at their FRA. If your own retirement benefit surpasses this amount, it will make you ineligible for other forms of Social Security. It’s crucial to remember that if your spouse dies, you will lose your entitlement to spousal or divorced benefits.
Nevertheless, you may often transition to claiming survivor benefits instead. Most spouses will qualify for this benefit, and in certain cases, divorced spouses and other family members may also be eligible. By grasping the eligibility criteria and strategically planning around your FRA, you can enhance your Social Security spousal benefits and ensure a more financially secure retirement.
If you believe you may qualify, it’s advisable to reach out to your local Social Security office to determine the potential amount you could receive.
