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Planning retirement income is more important than ever. Social Security spousal benefits help married and divorced individuals receive payments based on a spouse’s work record — even if they earned little or no income themselves.
These benefits can significantly improve household financial stability, but the rules must be understood to avoid costly mistakes.
What Are Spousal Benefits?
Spousal benefits allow one partner to receive retirement payments based on the earnings history of the other partner under the Social Security Administration (SSA) system.
Key Point
A spouse may receive up to 50% of the working spouse’s full retirement age (FRA) benefit.
Importantly, this does not reduce the worker’s own benefit.
Who Is Eligible in 2026?
Eligibility depends on age, marital status, and the worker’s benefit status.
General Requirements
- Must be at least 62 years old
- The working spouse must have already claimed benefits
- Must be legally married
For Divorced Spouses
You may qualify if:
- Marriage lasted at least 10 years
- You are currently unmarried
- You meet age requirements
You can qualify even if your ex-spouse has not claimed yet, provided they are eligible.
How Payment Amounts Are Calculated
Spousal benefits are based on the worker’s full retirement age benefit, not early-claim amounts.
| Claiming Age | Benefit Impact |
|---|---|
| At FRA | Up to 50% of spouse’s benefit |
| Before FRA | Permanently reduced |
| After FRA | No increase beyond 50% |
Unlike personal retirement benefits, spousal benefits do not grow after FRA.
How the SSA Pays Spousal Benefits
If someone qualifies for both:
- Their own retirement benefit is paid first
- If the spousal benefit is higher, SSA adds a “top-up” amount
You receive the higher amount — not both in full.
Monthly Payment Schedule
Spousal benefits follow the normal SSA payment calendar.
- Paid once per month
- Usually on a Wednesday
- Date depends on birth date
Timing affects when, not how much, you receive.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many retirees reduce their lifetime benefits by making simple errors.
Watch Out For:
- Claiming before full retirement age without understanding reductions
- Believing spousal benefits increase after FRA
- Divorced spouses not realizing they qualify
- Failing to coordinate claiming strategies
Good timing decisions can mean thousands more over retirement.
How to Apply
Applying is straightforward once eligibility is confirmed.
You’ll Need:
- Social Security numbers
- Proof of marriage or divorce
- Identification documents
You can apply:
- Online
- By phone
- At a Social Security office
Processing times vary, so apply early.
Why Planning Matters in 2026
Spousal benefits provide steady income that helps couples manage retirement expenses, especially when one spouse had lower lifetime earnings.
Smart planning can:
- Increase lifetime payments
- Improve household stability
- Reduce retirement stress
FAQs
1. Do spousal benefits reduce my spouse’s payment?
No. Each benefit is calculated separately.
2. Can I get both my own and spousal benefits?
You receive the higher of the two, not both in full.
3. Do benefits increase if I wait past FRA?
No. Spousal benefits stop growing at full retirement age.
4. Can divorced people qualify?
Yes, if the marriage lasted 10+ years and other rules are met.
5. When should I apply?
Timing depends on financial needs, but applying at FRA gives the highest spousal amount.
Final Thoughts
Social Security spousal benefits can be a powerful tool for retirement income planning. Understanding eligibility, timing, and payment structure helps couples make confident decisions.
Review your options carefully and check official SSA resources to ensure you claim the benefits you deserve.