Social Security provides financial support to millions of retirees, but many couples don’t fully understand how spousal benefits work. These benefits help married couples where one spouse has earned less income, offering much-needed retirement security. Whether you are planning for retirement or already retired, understanding these benefits can help you maximize your financial future.
How Much Can a Spousal Benefit Be?
A spousal benefit can be up to 50% of the higher-earning spouse’s Social Security benefit if claimed at full retirement age (FRA). For example:
- If your spouse’s full retirement benefit is $2,000 per month, the maximum spousal benefit is $1,000 per month.
- In 2025, the maximum Social Security benefit at full retirement age is $4,018 per month, meaning a spousal benefit could reach $2,009 per month.
Spousal benefits do not increase if you delay beyond full retirement age, so there’s no reason to wait past that point.
How Much Is the Average Spousal Benefit?
According to 2024 Social Security data, about 1.98 million people receive spousal benefits. The average monthly benefit is $890.24, which equals about $10,670 per year.
This may seem low compared to the average retired worker’s benefit of $1,905 per month, but for couples relying on one primary earner, it adds valuable financial support.
Early Retirement Reduces Spousal Benefits
If you claim spousal benefits before full retirement age, your monthly benefit is reduced.
- Spousal benefits can be claimed as early as age 62, but you’ll face a reduction of 25/36 of 1% per month (for up to 36 months).
- If you claim more than three years early, the reduction is 5/12 of 1% per month.
For example, if your full spousal benefit is $1,000 per month at age 67, but you claim at age 62, your benefit would be reduced by 35% to just $650 per month.
Unlike worker benefits, spousal benefits do not increase if you delay past full retirement age.
Divorced Spouses Can Also Qualify
Even if you’re divorced, you may still be eligible for spousal benefits under certain conditions:
- Your marriage must have lasted at least 10 years.
- You must be unmarried when claiming.
- You must be at least 62 years old.
- If the divorce was finalized two or more years ago, you can claim benefits even if your ex has not yet filed for Social Security.
If you remarry, you lose eligibility for an ex-spouse’s benefits unless that later marriage ends in divorce or death.
How to Estimate Your Future Spousal Benefit
If you’re unsure how much you’ll receive, you can easily check your estimated Social Security benefits online:
- Visit www.ssa.gov.
- Log in or create a My Social Security account.
- Check your earnings record and estimated future benefits.
- Compare your estimated benefit with 50% of your spouse’s full benefit to determine what you may receive.
Bonus: The Overlooked $22,924 Social Security Boost
Many retirees don’t realize they could be missing out on extra Social Security income. By understanding strategies like delaying personal benefits, coordinating spousal claims, and maximizing work credits, retirees can unlock thousands of dollars in additional benefits.
Spousal Social Security benefits provide financial stability for retired couples, especially when one spouse has earned less income over their lifetime. Understanding the maximum benefit limits, early retirement reductions, and eligibility for divorced spouses can help you make the most of your Social Security benefits. Before claiming, check your estimated benefits, consider your retirement age, and plan carefully to maximize your financial future. A well-planned Social Security strategy can make a big difference in your retirement income and security.
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