Spousal Security benefits: The Basics
Spousal Security benefits: The Basics
Spousal Social Security benefits is a benefit available to an individual's current or former spouse.
Typically Spousal Social Security benefit is issued when an individual with Social Security Benefits dies. However, the benefit is still available when there's no death, you can collect a Social Security spousal benefit equal to half of what your spouse gets when the amount exceeds the amount exceeds what you get on your own.
More about eligibility
In order to qualify, you must meet the requirements as dictated by the SSA. You must have been married for a minimum of 1 year, your spouse must already be collecting retirement benefits and you must be a minimum of 62 years old unless you are the guardian of a child who is under 16 or disabled, in which case the age rule does not apply
How much can you receive
By claiming for Spousal Social Security Benefits, you can receive a maximum of 50%, if you claim it at your FRA (Full retirement age), of what your spouse is currently receiving in social security benefits. Your FRA will vary depending on the year you were born, so it is recommended to look up your individual FRA as if you claim before you have reached it, you will receive a permanently reduced benefit.
What if your spouse dies
If your spouse dies and you are over the age of 60, you are entitled to a survivor’s benefit, which entitles you to 100% of your spouse’s Social security benefits. However, if you have reached your FRA, depending on how many years above your FRA you are, this is reduced to between 71.5%-99%.
What about divorced partners
What about divorced partners; If you are divorced you can still be entitled to Spousal Social Security Benefits, but you must meet some requirements. Your marriage must have lasted longer than 10 years and you are now unmarried. In addition to this, you must also meet the initial requirements of the age.
What if you remarry
If you decide to remarry, you cannot claim any benefits relating to your previous partner, however, if they meet all conditions and stay unmarried, they are entitled to file for Spousal Social Security Benefits against you.
What about your own social security
If you become a widow or widower and decide to claim Spousal Social Security Benefits, you also have the option to switch to your own benefit, if it becomes greater and more worthwhile to claim than your current survivor benefit.
How to apply
In order to apply you must meet the above conditions, you then have 3 options – You can apply online, by phone or by visiting your local social security office.
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