What You'll Learn
This guide will help you understand Social Security spousal benefits. We'll cover:
- Who can get spousal benefits.
- How much money you might receive.
- Special rules for divorced people.
- How your own work can change your benefit amount.
- How to apply for these benefits.
What Are Social Security Spousal Benefits?
Social Security spousal benefits are payments made to a husband or wife based on their spouse's work record. It's a way for families to get more support from Social Security. You don't have to have worked a lot yourself to get these benefits, as long as your spouse did.
Who Can Get Spousal Benefits?
To get spousal benefits, you must be married to someone who is already getting Social Security retirement or disability benefits. You also need to be at least 62 years old, or caring for a child under age 16 (or a child with a disability). If you're caring for a child, there's no age limit for you.
How Much Money Can You Get? The Up-to-50% Rule
The most you can usually get in spousal benefits is up to half (50%) of your spouse's full retirement benefit. For example, if your spouse gets $2,000 a month, you might get up to $1,000. How much you actually get depends on your age when you start taking benefits. If you take them early, your payment will be less than 50%.
If you also worked and can get your own Social Security benefit, the Social Security Administration will pay you your own benefit first. If your spousal benefit is higher, they will add money to your payment so you get the higher amount. This is sometimes called "deemed filing."
Spousal Benefits for Divorced People
Even if you're divorced, you might still be able to get spousal benefits from your ex-spouse's record. Here's what you need:
- Your marriage must have lasted at least 10 years.
- You must be unmarried at the time you apply.
- You must be at least 62 years old.
- Your ex-spouse must be eligible for Social Security retirement or disability benefits (they don't have to be taking them yet).
- You generally need to be divorced for at least two years.
Getting benefits on an ex-spouse's record does not change the amount your ex-spouse or their current spouse can receive. For more details on this, see our article on Social Security and Divorce.
How Working Affects Your Spousal Benefit
If you are still working and taking spousal benefits before your full retirement age, your benefits might be reduced if you earn too much money. Once you reach your full retirement age, you can earn as much as you want without your benefits being cut.
How to Apply for Social Security Spousal Benefits
Applying for spousal benefits is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
- Gather your documents: You'll need your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and your spouse's Social Security number. If you're applying as a divorced spouse, you'll also need your divorce decree.
- Contact Social Security: You can apply online, call them, or visit a local Social Security office. Visiting in person can be helpful if you have many questions.
- Fill out the application: Be ready to answer questions about your marriage, your spouse's work history, and your own work history.
- Wait for a decision: Social Security will review your application and let you know if you qualify and how much you'll receive.
You can learn more about the application process in our step-by-step Social Security application guide.
The Bottom Line
Social Security spousal benefits can be a big help for families in retirement. By understanding the rules and knowing how to apply, you can make sure you and your family get all the money you're entitled to. Don't hesitate to reach out to Social Security directly if you have specific questions about your situation.