If you are planning to collect Social Security benefits, or even thinking ahead, it is important to understand how they fit into your retirement income. Even if you know the basics, there are key differences to consider for married couples.
Knowing how to claim Social Security based on your marital status can help you make more informed decisions about your benefits.
Social Security & Marital Status
Married
If you are married, you may be able to claim spousal benefits based on your partner’s work history. To qualify, you must be at least 62 years old and have been married for at least one year. If you have a child under age 18, the one-year requirement does not apply.
Unmarried
If you are unmarried, your benefits are based on your own work history. The amount you receive depends on the number of credits you have earned and the Social Security taxes you have paid. Your benefit is calculated using your highest-earning 35 years, adjusted for inflation.
Divorced or Widowed
If you are divorced or widowed, you may still qualify for benefits. You must be at least 62 years old, have been married for at least 10 years, and be unmarried at the time you apply.
If your ex-spouse has not yet claimed benefits, you can still receive payments if you have been divorced for at least two years. If you remarry, you are generally eligible for spousal benefits through your current partner.
How Much Will You Receive?
Spousal benefits are typically up to half of your partner’s retirement benefit. You will receive either your own benefit or a portion of your spouse’s benefit, whichever is higher. For example, if your benefit is $300 per month and your spouse’s benefit is $900, you may receive $450 as a spousal benefit. If you are widowed, you may qualify for survivor benefits. These benefits are equal to what your spouse would have received.
Deciding When to Take Benefits Together
The timing of your claim can affect how much you receive. You can start collecting as early as age 62, but your monthly benefit will be reduced.1 Waiting until your full retirement age allows you to receive your full benefit amount. For many people, full retirement age ranges from 66 to 67, depending on birth year.
If you delay benefits past your full retirement age, your monthly amount increases each year until age 70. However, spousal benefits do not increase in the same way.
In 2026, the maximum monthly benefit is $4,152 at full retirement age, $2,969 at age 62, and up to $5,181 at age 70.2 The total benefit for a married couple depends on the higher earner’s income and when both partners choose to claim. It may help to review your income sources and savings when deciding the right time for each of you to begin collecting benefits.
Final Thoughts
Married couples have several options when claiming Social Security benefits. Your marital status can affect how and when you receive payments. Understanding these differences can help you and your partner make informed decisions about your retirement income.
Sources
- When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits. https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10147.pdf.
- What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit payable? https://www.ssa.gov/faqs/en/questions/KA-01897.html.
