Social Security benefits play an essential role in financial security during retirement. While many people qualify for their own benefits, others may be eligible to receive benefits based on their spouse’s work history. If you have limited work credits or your personal Social Security benefits are lower than your spouse’s, you might be able to claim a spouse’s benefit.
Understanding how spouse’s benefits work can help you plan your retirement income more effectively. Let’s break down the details in a clear and simple way.
Who Can Receive Spouse’s Benefits?
To qualify for Social Security spouse’s benefits, you must meet one of the following conditions:
- Be at least 62 years old.
- Be any age if you are caring for a child under 16 or a child with a disability who qualifies for benefits on your spouse’s record.
Additionally, your spouse must already be receiving their Social Security retirement or disability benefits. If they haven’t started receiving benefits, you will need to wait before applying based on their record.
How Much Can You Receive?
The amount you receive as a spouse depends on multiple factors, including your spouse’s benefit amount and your age when you start claiming.
- The maximum spouse’s benefit is 50% of your spouse’s full retirement benefit if you start collecting at your full retirement age (FRA).
- If you choose to start receiving benefits before reaching full retirement age, your payment will be permanently reduced.
- If your spouse has delayed their benefits past their FRA to earn higher payments, your spouse’s benefit remains based on their original full retirement age amount, not their increased amount.
- If your spouse has passed away, you may qualify for survivor benefits, which could be higher than spouse’s benefits.
Example:
Emma’s husband, John, is eligible for a monthly Social Security benefit of $2,400. If Emma applies for spouse’s benefits at her full retirement age, she can receive $1,200 per month (50% of John’s FRA benefit). If she applies earlier, her benefit will be lower.
If You Qualify for Your Own Retirement Benefits
If you qualify for both your own Social Security retirement benefits and spouse’s benefits, Social Security will compare both amounts and pay the higher one.
How It Works:
- If your own retirement benefit is higher than your spouse’s benefit, you will receive your own benefit.
- If your spouse’s benefit is higher, you will receive your own benefit plus an additional amount to bring your total payment up to the higher spouse’s benefit.
Example:
Lisa’s own retirement benefit is $900 per month, but her spouse’s benefit would be $1,200. She will receive her $900 benefit first, plus an extra $300 from her spouse’s record, for a total of $1,200 per month.
This process is known as deemed filing, meaning when you apply for one benefit, Social Security automatically considers you for the other.
Can Divorced Spouses Receive Benefits?
Yes! If you were married for at least 10 years, you may be eligible for spouse’s benefits based on your former spouse’s record—even if they have remarried. You must also meet the following conditions:
- Be at least 62 years old.
- Be unmarried.
- Your own Social Security benefit must be less than the spouse’s benefit available to you.
Your former spouse does not need to be collecting Social Security for you to apply, but they must be eligible for benefits.
If you have remarried, you cannot receive benefits on your ex-spouse’s record unless that later marriage ends in divorce or widowhood.
How to Apply for Spouse’s Benefits
Applying for Social Security spouse’s benefits is easier than you might think. You can complete most of the process online or by visiting your local Social Security office.
Steps to Apply Online:
- Check Your Eligibility – Log into your my Social Security account to see an estimate of your spouse’s benefit.
- Complete the Application – Visit the Social Security website and apply online if you are at least 61 years and 9 months old.
- Submit Required Documents – You may need to provide:
- Marriage certificate
- Your spouse’s Social Security number
- Birth certificates
- Any additional proof requested by the Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Wait for Approval – Processing can take several weeks, and you’ll receive a confirmation letter when your benefits are approved.
What Happens If You Continue Working?
If you are younger than your full retirement age and continue working while receiving spouse’s benefits, Social Security may reduce your benefits if your earnings exceed a certain limit. Once you reach your full retirement age, your benefits will no longer be reduced due to earnings.
If your spouse is still working, you can still apply for spouse’s benefits only if they have already started receiving Social Security payments.
Taxes and Social Security Benefits
Did you know Social Security benefits may be taxable? Your spouse’s benefits could be taxed depending on your total income. If your combined income (AGI + non-taxable interest + half of your Social Security benefits) exceeds certain limits, part of your benefit may be taxable:
- $25,000-$34,000 for single filers – Up to 50% of benefits may be taxed.
- Above $34,000 for single filers – Up to 85% of benefits may be taxed.
- $32,000-$44,000 for married joint filers – Up to 50% of benefits may be taxed.
- Above $44,000 for married joint filers – Up to 85% of benefits may be taxed.
If you are concerned about taxes, you can opt to withhold federal income tax from your Social Security payments or make quarterly estimated tax payments.
State Tax on Spouse’s Benefits
While many states do not tax Social Security benefits, some do.
For example:
- New Mexico offers higher income exemptions, meaning fewer retirees will pay state tax on benefits.
- West Virginia is phasing out Social Security taxes entirely by 2026.
Check with your state’s Department of Revenue to see if state taxes apply to you.
Final Thoughts
Social Security spouse’s benefits can significantly boost retirement income for those who qualify. Whether you are currently married, divorced, or considering when to claim benefits, understanding the rules will help you make informed decisions.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help with the application, visit the official Social Security website or call your local Social Security office for assistance.
Planning ahead ensures you maximize the benefits available to you and secure financial stability in your retirement years.
Have Questions? Share this information with family and friends who might find it useful. It’s never too early to start planning for retirement!
Also Read –
Capital Gains Tax Rates: What’s New in 2024 Compared to 2023?
From Great Depression to Modern Day: Impact of US Stock Market Crash and Aftermath Policy
US Stock Market Crash: Record Low Hit of 1000-Point Drop and 5% Slide