Social Security can be a tricky topic, filled with myths and misunderstandings. It’s a system that many rely on, but few truly understand. To help you make informed decisions, here’s a list of 25 essential facts about Social Security benefits that you can save and refer to whenever you need.

Understanding Social Security Benefits

1. You Always Get Your Own Benefit First
   Regardless of any other benefits you qualify for, Social Security always pays your benefit first.
2. Divorce Doesn’t Stop Benefits
   If you’ve been divorced for more than two years, are at least 62 years old, and qualify for ex-spousal benefits, you can still claim them—even if your ex hasn’t started receiving theirs.
3. Early Benefits Mean Reduced Payments
   Taking Social Security before your full retirement age will always result in lower monthly payments.
4. Your Top 35 Earning Years Matter
   Social Security calculates your benefits based on your highest 35 years of earnings, adjusted for inflation.
5. Spousal Benefits Use a Specific Calculation
   Spousal benefits are based on your spouse’s Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), not their current payments.
6. You Can Claim Survivor Benefits Early
   If you are widowed, you can claim survivor benefits starting at age 60—no need to wait until 62.
7. You Must Be 62 for the Entire Month
   To qualify for benefits at 62, you need to have reached that age by the first day of the month.
8. Medicare Enrollment Is Automatic
   If you already receive Social Security, you’re automatically signed up for Medicare when you qualify.

Social Security and Divorce

9. You Can’t Waive Benefits in a Divorce
   Even if your divorce decree mentions waiving benefits, Social Security only cares if you were married for at least 10 years.
10. Government Pensions Affect Timing
    If you have another government pension, consider starting Social Security early to maximize benefits before the pension begins.
11. Parents May Want to Claim Early
    If you have children under 19, filing for benefits early could provide additional financial support.

Switching Between Benefits

12. SSDI Converts Automatically
    Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) automatically turns into retirement benefits when you reach full retirement age.
13. Spousal and Survivor Benefits Are Different
    A spousal benefit doesn’t transfer into a survivor benefit if your spouse passes away. Instead, you’ll qualify for a separate survivor benefit.
14. Spousal Benefits Depend on Your Spouse’s Payments
    You can only receive a spousal benefit if your spouse has started receiving their benefits.

Timing and Eligibility

15. You Need to Be Alive for Payments
    Social Security benefits stop in the month of your death, and any unused funds in your account are reclaimed.
16. Common Law Marriages Are Recognized
    Common law marriages are valid for Social Security purposes, but the rules vary by state.
17. You Can Withdraw an Application
    If you’ve started benefits but changed your mind, you can withdraw your application within 12 months—just be prepared to pay back any money you received.
18. Remarrying After 60 Won’t Affect Survivor Benefits
    If you remarry after age 60, you can still collect survivor benefits from your late spouse.

Staying Prepared

19. Set Up an Online Account
    Visit ssa.gov to create an account, review your earnings record, and ensure all your information is accurate.
20. There’s No Benefit to Waiting Past 70
    Delaying Social Security beyond age 70 doesn’t increase your payments, so start collecting at 70 if you haven’t already.
21. Surviving Spouses Get the Higher Benefit
    When one spouse passes away, the surviving spouse will receive the higher of the two benefits, while the lower amount stops.
22. Spousal Benefits Automatically Convert to Survivor Benefits
    If you’re receiving spousal benefits and your spouse dies, those benefits will automatically switch to survivor benefits.
23. Military Retirement Doesn’t Reduce Benefits
    If you receive military retirement, it won’t reduce your Social Security payments.
24. Living Abroad Requires Confirmation
    If you live outside the U.S., Social Security will periodically send questionnaires to confirm your eligibility. Failing to respond may stop your benefits.
25. File Early to Avoid Delays
    Start your Social Security application 2–3 months before you want benefits to begin.

Final Thoughts

Social Security can be a lifeline if you plan carefully. Making the wrong choice—like taking benefits too early—can have long-term consequences, as reduced benefits are permanent. Stay informed and always consult with a professional if you’re unsure.