SSA Confirms: U.S. Spouses and Ex-Spouses Can Receive Up to 50% of Partner’s Social Security Benefits by 2025
In 2025, American citizens who are married or divorced may be eligible for increased Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers various options for individuals to access these benefits.
One key benefit, specifically for spouses or ex-spouses, is the spousal Social Security benefit. This guide explains everything you need to know about eligibility, how to apply, and the amount you can expect to receive.
What is Spousal Social Security?
Social Security in Retirement
Social Security in retirement provides monthly payments to individuals who have worked and paid into the system. These payments are meant to replace a portion of the income you lose when you stop working or reduce your hours.
Apart from retirement benefits, the SSA offers benefits for disability, survivors, family members, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicare. However, here, we will focus primarily on spousal Social Security benefits.
How Does Spousal Social Security Work?
Spousal Social Security benefits are designed to help spouses or ex-spouses receive a portion of their partner’s Social Security payments. In some cases, these benefits may be higher than the individual’s own Social Security benefits.
Eligibility Requirements for Spousal Benefits
Before you can receive spousal Social Security benefits, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 62 years old, although there are exceptions if you are caring for a child under 16 or a child with disabilities.
- Marriage Status: Your current spouse must have already applied for their retirement benefits. If you are divorced, your ex-spouse must be receiving benefits or be eligible to do so once they reach their Full Retirement Age (FRA).
- Work History: You may be eligible if you haven’t worked enough to receive your own retirement benefits, or if your spouse’s benefits are higher than yours.
How Much Can You Receive?
Standard Benefits
The basic spousal benefit is 50% of your spouse’s monthly Social Security payment. This amount is based on your spouse’s benefit at their Full Retirement Age (FRA).
For instance, if your spouse is eligible to receive $2,000 per month at their FRA, you could receive $1,000 per month.
Early vs. Delayed Benefits
- Starting Benefits Early: If you begin receiving spousal benefits before your FRA, your monthly benefit will be permanently reduced. For example, if you start early, instead of getting $1,000, you may only receive $800 per month. This reduction remains even after you reach your FRA.
- Delayed Benefits: If you wait until your FRA or beyond to start receiving spousal benefits, you will receive the full 50% of your spouse’s benefit.
Understanding ‘Deemed Filing’
What is ‘Deemed Filing’?
‘Deemed filing’ refers to situations where you are eligible for both your own benefits and your spousal benefits. In this case, when you apply, the SSA will automatically consider both benefits and provide you with the higher of the two amounts.
Divorce and Spousal Benefits
Can Divorced Individuals Receive Spousal Benefits?
Yes! If you are divorced, you may still qualify for spousal benefits under the following conditions:
- You were married to your ex-spouse for at least 10 years.
- You are currently unmarried.
- You are at least 62 years old.
- Your ex-spouse is either receiving Social Security benefits or is eligible to start receiving them upon reaching their FRA.
How to Apply for Spousal Social Security Benefits
Steps to Apply
To apply for spousal benefits, you can create an account with the SSA to manage your benefits, check the status of your application, and access tools for estimating your future benefits.
By setting up an online account, you can quickly access all necessary resources without waiting for paper mail. Visit the SSA website to get started.
Eligibility Criteria for Spousal Social Security Benefits
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 62 years or older (with exceptions) |
| Marriage Requirement | Must be married or divorced (for at least 10 years) |
| Spouse’s Application | Spouse must have applied for retirement benefits |
| Work History | Must not have worked enough or your spouse’s benefit is higher |
Spousal Social Security benefits can provide essential financial support for married or divorced individuals in retirement.
By understanding the eligibility requirements, the amount you could receive, and the process for applying, you can make informed decisions about your financial future. Be sure to set up an online account with the SSA to manage and track your benefits.
FAQs
What are the benefits for spouses under Social Security?
Spouses can receive up to 50% of their partner’s monthly Social Security benefit, depending on when they choose to begin receiving the benefits.
How do I apply for spousal Social Security benefits?
You can apply for spousal benefits by creating a personal account on the SSA website and submitting your application online.
Can I receive spousal Social Security benefits if I am divorced?
Yes, divorced individuals can receive spousal benefits if they meet certain requirements, such as being married for at least 10 years and being at least 62 years old.