Social Security spousal benefits can be a game-changer for couples planning their retirement. Whether you’re a lower-earning spouse, a stay-at-home parent, or even divorced, these benefits ensure you have financial support in your later years. But who qualifies? How much can you get? And how do you apply?
Let’s break it down in clear, simple terms so you can make the most of this valuable program.
What Are Social Security Spousal Benefits?
Spousal benefits allow a non-working or lower-earning spouse to receive a portion of their partner’s Social Security retirement or disability benefits. This system ensures that people who may have spent years raising a family or working part-time still receive a steady source of income in retirement.
Claiming spousal benefits does not reduce the amount the primary earner receives.
Learn more on the official Social Security website
Who Qualifies for Spousal Benefits?
To receive spousal benefits, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
You must be at least 62 years old
You must be currently married to someone receiving Social Security benefits
If divorced, you must have been married for at least 10 years
What If You’re Divorced?
You can still receive spousal benefits if:
You were married for at least 10 years
You are currently unmarried
You and your ex-spouse are both at least 62
Your ex qualifies for Social Security (they do not need to have claimed it yet)
Check your eligibility here
How Much Can You Get?
Your spousal benefit depends on a few factors:
At Full Retirement Age (FRA), you can receive up to 50 percent of your spouse’s Social Security benefit
If you claim early (before FRA), your benefit is reduced (down to 32.5 percent at age 62)
If your own benefit is higher, Social Security will pay you the larger of the two amounts
For example, if your spouse’s monthly Social Security benefit is $2,000, you can receive $1,000 per month if you wait until full retirement age. If you claim early, that amount is reduced.
Estimate your benefits here
Important Rules and Exceptions
No Bonus for Delaying
Unlike personal Social Security benefits, spousal benefits do not increase if you wait past full retirement age. There is no reason to delay once you are eligible.
If You Have Your Own Work History
If you qualify for Social Security on your own earnings, you will receive that amount first
If your spousal benefit is higher, Social Security will increase your payment to match it
The Government Pension Offset (GPO) Rule
In the past, if you worked in a government job not covered by Social Security, your spousal benefit could be reduced under the GPO rule. However, the Social Security Fairness Act, signed in January 2025, repealed this rule. Many public employees may now receive full spousal benefits.
Read more about the Social Security Fairness Act
How to Apply for Spousal Benefits
Applying for spousal benefits is a simple process:
Step 1: Gather Documents
Marriage certificate
Social Security numbers (yours and your spouse’s)
Proof of age (birth certificate)
Divorce papers (if applicable)
Step 2: Apply Online, By Phone, or In Person
Apply online: Social Security Website
Call SSA: 1-800-772-1213
Visit an office: Find a local SSA office
Step 3: Provide Additional Information If Requested
The SSA may need employment records, prior marriages, or tax documents. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
Understanding Social Security Spousal Benefits: What You Need to Know
Social Security spousal benefits can be a game-changer for couples planning their retirement. Whether you’re a lower-earning spouse, a stay-at-home parent, or even divorced, these benefits ensure you have financial support in your later years. But who qualifies? How much can you get? And how do you apply?
Let’s break it down in clear, simple terms so you can make the most of this valuable program.
What Are Social Security Spousal Benefits?
Spousal benefits allow a non-working or lower-earning spouse to receive a portion of their partner’s Social Security retirement or disability benefits. This system ensures that people who may have spent years raising a family or working part-time still receive a steady source of income in retirement.
Claiming spousal benefits does not reduce the amount the primary earner receives.
Learn more on the official Social Security website
Who Qualifies for Spousal Benefits?
To receive spousal benefits, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
You must be at least 62 years old
You must be currently married to someone receiving Social Security benefits
If divorced, you must have been married for at least 10 years
What If You’re Divorced?
You can still receive spousal benefits if:
You were married for at least 10 years
You are currently unmarried
You and your ex-spouse are both at least 62
Your ex qualifies for Social Security (they do not need to have claimed it yet)
Check your eligibility here
How Much Can You Get?
Your spousal benefit depends on a few factors:
At Full Retirement Age (FRA), you can receive up to 50 percent of your spouse’s Social Security benefit
If you claim early (before FRA), your benefit is reduced (down to 32.5 percent at age 62)
If your own benefit is higher, Social Security will pay you the larger of the two amounts
For example, if your spouse’s monthly Social Security benefit is $2,000, you can receive $1,000 per month if you wait until full retirement age. If you claim early, that amount is reduced.
Estimate your benefits here
Important Rules and Exceptions
No Bonus for Delaying
Unlike personal Social Security benefits, spousal benefits do not increase if you wait past full retirement age. There is no reason to delay once you are eligible.
If You Have Your Own Work History
If you qualify for Social Security on your own earnings, you will receive that amount first
If your spousal benefit is higher, Social Security will increase your payment to match it
The Government Pension Offset (GPO) Rule
In the past, if you worked in a government job not covered by Social Security, your spousal benefit could be reduced under the GPO rule. However, the Social Security Fairness Act, signed in January 2025, repealed this rule. Many public employees may now receive full spousal benefits.
Read more about the Social Security Fairness Act
Understanding Social Security Spousal Benefits: What You Need to Know
Social Security spousal benefits can be a game-changer for couples planning their retirement. Whether you’re a lower-earning spouse, a stay-at-home parent, or even divorced, these benefits ensure you have financial support in your later years. But who qualifies? How much can you get? And how do you apply?
Let’s break it down in clear, simple terms so you can make the most of this valuable program.
What Are Social Security Spousal Benefits?
Spousal benefits allow a non-working or lower-earning spouse to receive a portion of their partner’s Social Security retirement or disability benefits. This system ensures that people who may have spent years raising a family or working part-time still receive a steady source of income in retirement.
Claiming spousal benefits does not reduce the amount the primary earner receives.
Learn more on the official Social Security website
Who Qualifies for Spousal Benefits?
To receive spousal benefits, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
You must be at least 62 years old
You must be currently married to someone receiving Social Security benefits
If divorced, you must have been married for at least 10 years
What If You’re Divorced?
You can still receive spousal benefits if:
You were married for at least 10 years
You are currently unmarried
You and your ex-spouse are both at least 62
Your ex qualifies for Social Security (they do not need to have claimed it yet)
Check your eligibility here
How Much Can You Get?
Your spousal benefit depends on a few factors:
At Full Retirement Age (FRA), you can receive up to 50 percent of your spouse’s Social Security benefit
If you claim early (before FRA), your benefit is reduced (down to 32.5 percent at age 62)
If your own benefit is higher, Social Security will pay you the larger of the two amounts
For example, if your spouse’s monthly Social Security benefit is $2,000, you can receive $1,000 per month if you wait until full retirement age. If you claim early, that amount is reduced.
Estimate your benefits here
Important Rules and Exceptions
No Bonus for Delaying
Unlike personal Social Security benefits, spousal benefits do not increase if you wait past full retirement age. There is no reason to delay once you are eligible.
If You Have Your Own Work History
If you qualify for Social Security on your own earnings, you will receive that amount first
If your spousal benefit is higher, Social Security will increase your payment to match it
The Government Pension Offset (GPO) Rule
In the past, if you worked in a government job not covered by Social Security, your spousal benefit could be reduced under the GPO rule. However, the Social Security Fairness Act, signed in January 2025, repealed this rule. Many public employees may now receive full spousal benefits.
How to Apply for Spousal Benefits
Applying for spousal benefits is a simple process:
Step 1: Gather Documents
Marriage certificate
Social Security numbers (yours and your spouse’s)
Proof of age (birth certificate)
Divorce papers (if applicable)
Step 2: Apply Online, By Phone, or In Person
Apply online: Social Security Website
Call SSA: 1-800-772-1213
Visit an office: Find a local SSA office
Step 3: Provide Additional Information If Requested
The SSA may need employment records, prior marriages, or tax documents. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Spousal Benefits
Social Security spousal benefits can significantly impact your financial stability in retirement. To make the most of them:
Wait until full retirement age for the biggest payout
Double-check eligibility if divorced—you may still qualify
Apply early to avoid processing delays
Consult a financial advisor if you are unsure about the best claiming strategy
By understanding your options, you can ensure you receive the maximum amount you are entitled to. Do not leave money on the table.
For more information, visit the Social Security Administration’s website or call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance.
Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Spousal Benefits
Social Security spousal benefits can significantly impact your financial stability in retirement. To make the most of them:
Wait until full retirement age for the biggest payout
Double-check eligibility if divorced—you may still qualify
Apply early to avoid processing delays
Consult a financial advisor if you are unsure about the best claiming strategy
By understanding your options, you can ensure you receive the maximum amount you are entitled to. Do not leave money on the table.
