Social Security spousal benefits are a critical feature of the Social Security program in the United States, particularly for married couples. These benefits provide income support to a spouse who may have little to no earnings history but can still qualify for a retirement benefit based on their partner’s work record.
Under current Social Security rules, a non-working or lower-earning spouse can receive up to 50% of the higher-earning spouse’s full retirement benefit if they begin claiming benefits at their full retirement age (FRA). The FRA varies depending on the beneficiary’s birth year, typically ranging from 66 to 67. Importantly, the spousal benefit does not reduce the higher-earning spouse’s own benefit.
To qualify, the couple must be legally married, and the higher-earning spouse must have already filed for their own benefits. Divorced spouses may also be eligible for spousal benefits if they were married for at least 10 years and have not remarried.
Claiming spousal benefits prior to full retirement age results in a reduced monthly amount. Unlike retirement benefits based on one’s own work history, spousal benefits do not increase by delaying filing past the FRA. Therefore, timing the claim is crucial.
These benefits are designed to ensure that households with only one working partner during their earning years still have access to Social Security support in retirement. They can be particularly beneficial for stay-at-home parents, caregivers, or individuals who worked in unpaid or low-wage roles throughout their lives.
Understanding how and when to claim spousal benefits is essential for couples aiming to maximize their retirement income. It is advised that individuals consult the Social Security Administration or a financial advisor to make informed decisions tailored to their unique situations.
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