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Spousal Social Security Benefits: What You Need to Know

Spousal Social Security Benefits: What You Need to Know

Sandy Staggs

Spousal Social Security benefits provide financial support to individuals based on their spouse’s earnings record. If you’re married, divorced, or widowed, you might qualify for these benefits, even if you haven’t worked enough to earn your own. Here are three essential things to know before applying for spousal Social Security benefits.

1. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for spousal Social Security benefits, you must meet specific criteria:

  • Current Spouses: You must be at least 62 years old and married to someone who is eligible for Social Security retirement or disability benefits.
  • Divorced Spouses: If you’re divorced, you can still claim spousal benefits if:
    • The marriage lasted at least 10 years.
    • You’re currently unmarried.
    • Your ex-spouse is eligible for benefits.
  • Widowed Spouses: Surviving spouses may qualify for benefits as early as age 60 (or 50 if disabled). Remarriage before age 60 (or 50 if disabled) may disqualify you.

Spousal benefits are typically up to 50% of the working spouse’s full retirement benefit.

2. Timing Affects Your Benefits

The age at which you claim spousal benefits significantly impacts the amount you receive:

  • Claiming benefits before your full retirement age (FRA) will reduce your monthly payment.
  • Waiting until your FRA ensures you receive the maximum spousal benefit, which is 50% of your spouse’s full retirement amount.
  • Unlike retirement benefits, delaying past your FRA does not increase spousal benefits.

3. Coordination with Your Own Benefits

If you’re eligible for both your own Social Security benefits and spousal benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will pay the higher amount. This is called a “dual entitlement.”

  • If your own benefit is higher, you will receive it instead of spousal benefits.
  • If your spouse’s earnings record provides a higher benefit, you’ll receive the spousal amount.
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For divorced spouses, your benefits won’t affect what your ex-spouse or their current spouse receives.

Additional Tips

  • Create a mySocialSecurity Account: Use the SSA’s online portal to review your earnings and eligibility.
  • Consult a Financial Planner: A professional can help determine the optimal timing and strategy for claiming benefits.
  • Understand Tax Implications: Up to 85% of Social Security benefits may be taxable if your income exceeds certain thresholds.

Conclusion

Spousal Social Security benefits can provide significant financial support for those who qualify. Understanding eligibility, timing, and how benefits coordinate with your own is essential for making informed decisions. To learn more or begin the application process, visit the Social Security Administration’s website.

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