The Social Security Administration has confirmed that spousal benefits are available for individuals who have never worked, allowing them to collect up to 50% of their partner’s benefits. This announcement highlights an often-overlooked aspect of Social Security, which extends eligibility beyond those who have contributed directly to the system.
In the United States, approximately 2 million people receive spousal benefits, while over 53 million individuals collect regular retirement benefits. Despite the significant number of recipients, many potential beneficiaries remain unaware of their eligibility or the rules governing these benefits.
Understanding Eligibility for Spousal Benefits
To qualify for spousal benefits, individuals must meet several criteria. First and foremost, the working partner must be eligible for their own retirement benefits. This requires them to have earned 40 credits, equivalent to about ten years of work. In 2025, one credit is earned for every $1,810 in income, with a maximum of four credits available each year.
If the working spouse does not meet this requirement, no spousal benefit can be claimed. Additionally, the marriage history plays a crucial role in eligibility. For current spouses, a minimum marriage duration of one year is required, although there are exceptions. This rule does not apply if the couple has a child together or if the non-working spouse had already qualified for Social Security benefits before the marriage.
For divorced individuals, the marriage must have lasted at least ten years, and they cannot be remarried at the time of application. Importantly, the eligibility of the ex-spouse remains unaffected if their former partner remarries, as long as the ten-year rule is followed.
Timing and Benefit Amounts
Timing is another critical factor in claiming spousal benefits. Generally, individuals cannot receive spousal payments until their partner begins to receive their own retirement benefits. However, individuals with qualifying work histories can apply for their own retirement benefits while waiting for their spouse to claim theirs. Moreover, divorced individuals can request spousal benefits based on their ex-spouse’s record if they have been divorced for at least two years.
When it comes to the amounts received, individuals will only receive the higher of their own retirement benefit or the spousal benefit. The maximum spousal benefit equals half of the working partner’s full retirement age (FRA) entitlement. For those born in 1960 or later, the current FRA is 67 years old. If individuals apply for benefits before reaching their FRA, the amounts will be reduced.
Individuals should assess their options carefully. In many cases, the spousal benefit is more substantial if the working partner earned significantly more over their career. Nevertheless, most Americans tend to select their own retirement benefits unless the spousal benefit is notably higher.
Understanding the nuances of Social Security spousal benefits can lead to better financial planning and security for many individuals, particularly those who have not participated in the workforce. As awareness grows, more people may benefit from these provisions designed to support families and spouses.
