Hello, lovebirds! 💕 Are you married or in a committed relationship and want to know how to maximize your Social Security benefits? Look no further! In today’s blog, we’ll be covering everything you need to know about Social Security benefits for spouses.

What Are Spousal Benefits? 🤔

Spousal benefits are Social Security benefits that are available to spouses who are married or in a civil union. These benefits are a percentage of the primary beneficiary’s (typically the higher-earning spouse) benefits and are available to the lower-earning spouse, even if they’ve never worked themselves.

Who is Eligible for Spousal Benefits? 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️

To be eligible for spousal benefits, you need to meet certain criteria:

  • You must be married to or in a civil union with the primary beneficiary.
  • You must be at least 62 years old.
  • Your spouse must be receiving their Social Security benefits or have reached the age of 62 and be eligible for benefits.
  • Your spousal benefits cannot exceed your own Social Security benefits.

How Are Spousal Benefits Calculated? 🔢

The amount of spousal benefits you’re entitled to receive is calculated based on your spouse’s Social Security benefits. The maximum spousal benefit you can receive is 50% of your spouse’s primary insurance amount (the benefit they would receive at their full retirement age).

When Should You Claim Spousal Benefits? ⏰

You can claim spousal benefits as early as age 62, but your benefits will be reduced if you claim them before your full retirement age (which is currently 66 or 67, depending on your birth year). If you wait until your full retirement age, you’ll be entitled to 50% of your spouse’s primary insurance amount.

Can You Claim Benefits on an Ex-Spouse’s Record? 💔

Yes, if you were married for at least 10 years, you can claim benefits on your ex-spouse’s record, even if they have remarried. However, if you remarry, you’ll no longer be eligible for benefits on your ex-spouse’s record.

A happy couple holding hands

What Happens to Spousal Benefits When One Spouse Dies? ☠️

If your spouse passes away, you may be eligible for survivor benefits. Survivor benefits are equal to the amount of your spouse’s Social Security benefits, and you can begin receiving them as early as age 60 (or age 50 if you have a disability).

How Can You Maximize Your Spousal Benefits? 💰

Here are a few tips to help you maximize your spousal benefits:

  • Wait until your full retirement age to claim benefits if possible.
  • Coordinate your benefits with your spouse to ensure you’re both maximizing your benefits.
  • Consider delaying claiming benefits until age 70 to maximize your benefit amount.
  • Consider your other retirement income sources in your claiming strategy.

With the right strategy, you and your spouse can maximize your Social Security benefits and enjoy a comfortable retirement! 💰

A smiling couple holding hands near the beach

And that’s everything you need to know about Social Security benefits for spouses! 💕 Happy retirement planning! 😎

A cartoon image of a retired couple sitting in rocking chairs on a porch together, smiling