Married … or divorced? This little-known rule can boost your Social Security check

When most couples think about Social Security, they focus on individual benefits earned through years of payroll taxes. But there’s another benefit many overlook: the spousal benefit.

Spousal Social Security benefits allow you to receive up to 50% of your spouse’s full retirement benefits. While the average retired worker receives about $2,008 a month, those claiming spousal benefits get an average of $955 a year — and in many cases, that’s significantly more than what they’d qualify for on their own.

Best of all, you won’t take anything away from your spouse’s benefits by claiming it, providing a valuable supplement to your household’s retirement income when timed correctly.

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What are spousal benefits?

Spousal benefits allow you to receive Social Security payments based on your spouse’s earnings record rather than your own — up to half of what they’re entitled to at full retirement age (FRA). This benefit is distinct from survivor benefits, which applies after a spouse dies.

When you apply for spousal benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) compares both your own benefit and the spousal benefit, paying you whichever is higher. If your spouse’s monthly benefit at FRA is $2,000, you could qualify for up to $1,000 — even if your own benefit would be less.

A few key advantages of spousal benefits:

• Your spousal benefits don’t reduce your spouse’s benefit. They still receive their full amount.

• You can qualify even if you haven’t earned enough credits for your own benefit.

Something to watch for: Claiming before your FRA can reduce your spousal benefit permanently. It’s also always capped at 50% of your spouse’s FRA benefit, even if your spouse delays claiming until age 70 to maximize their own benefit.

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Who qualifies for spousal benefits?

Eligibility for spousal benefits is based on your age, your marital history and your spouse’s (or ex-spouse’s) benefits.

If you’re currently married:

• You must be at least 62

• Your spouse must have already filed for their own Social Security benefits

• Your marriage must also have lasted at least one year

If you’re divorced:

• You must be currently unmarried

• Your ex must be at least 62 and eligible for benefits

• Your marriage must have lasted at least 10 years

• You must be divorced at least 2 years

These rules allow many people — especially divorced retirees — to qualify for benefits they may not be aware of. Regardless of whether you’re married or divorced, you’ll receive a spousal benefit only if it’s higher than your own earned benefit, no double dipping.

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How spousal benefits are calculated

When you file for Social Security, the SSA applies what’s called “deemed filing” — a rule that automatically makes sure you receive the higher of your own or your spousal benefits.

For example, if your own benefit would be $600 and your spouse’s full retirement benefit is $2,000, you’d receive your $600 plus an additional $400, bringing your total to $1,000 (or half of your spouse’s amount).

Your spousal benefit maxes out at 50% of your spouse’s FRA benefit. Even if your spouse waits to file until 70 and earns delayed retirement credits that boost their own payment, your spousal benefit stays frozen at 50% of their FRA amount.

Claiming early matters too. If you claim at age 62 instead of waiting until your FRA, your spousal benefit drops — from 50% to about 32.5% to 35% of your spouse’s FRA amount.

If you’re still working when you claim early, earnings above Social Security’s annual limit can temporarily reduce your payments. But don’t worry: Those withheld amounts are credited back after you reach FRA.

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Smart timing to maximize your income

Spousal benefits require coordination and strategy — and it can mean tens of thousands of dollars over your retirement.

For married couples with unequal earnings, the lower-earning spouse can claim spousal benefits at FRA, while the higher earner delays claiming. This strategy allows for more immediate income while boosting future household income. But remember: Your spousal benefit doesn’t increase when the spouse delays — it’s always capped at 50% of the FRA amount.

For couples with similar earnings, claiming your own benefits (rather than spousal benefits) can make sense.

For divorced spouses, you can plan independently. At age 62 or later, you can claim on your ex-spouse’s record as long as they’re already receiving benefits. Otherwise, you’ll need to wait at least two years after your divorce.

The right approach depends on your ages, earnings records and financial needs. Crunch the numbers using the SSA’s online calculators or work with a trusted retirement advisor to test out different timelines before you apply.

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Bottom line: Are you missing out on money?

If you’re married or divorced after a long marriage, spousal benefits could be one of the most overlooked parts of your retirement plan. It can be worth up to half of your spouse’s benefit, possibly exceeding what you’d earn on your own. And it won’t reduce your spouse’s (or ex-spouse’s) benefits.

Don’t let confusion or misinformation cost you money. Whether you’re currently retired or nearing retirement, the key is knowing eligibility requirements and timing your claim strategically.

A well-timed strategy could mean thousands of extra dollars each year — and peace of mind you’ve claimed everything you’re entitled to.

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About the writer

Michael Kurko is a finance writer and editor who covers investing, real estate, personal budgeting and financial literacy. His expertise has been featured in FinanceBuzz, The Balance, Investopedia, U.S. News & World Report and Forbes Advisor, among other top financial publications. In addition to his work in finance, Michael is also a freelance book editor and fiction writer. He strives to make complex money topics clear and approachable so readers can make informed decisions and build lasting financial confidence.

Edited by Kelly Suzan Waggoner

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