Spousal and survivor Social Security benefits
For married couples, Social Security is really two decisions that affect each other. Here is how the benefits work and why timing matters.
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Spousal benefits
A spouse can receive up to 50% of the worker's full retirement age benefit, if the spouse claims at their own full retirement age. Claiming earlier reduces it. Spousal benefits do not grow with delayed retirement credits, so waiting past full retirement age adds nothing to a spousal benefit.
The worker generally must have already filed for benefits before the spouse can collect on that record. When you file, you are generally paid the higher of your own benefit or the spousal amount.
Survivor benefits
When a spouse passes away, the survivor can generally receive the deceased spouse's benefit, up to 100% of it, in place of their own if it is higher. A survivor can claim as early as 60, with a reduction if claimed before the survivor's full retirement age.
Because the survivor can step into the larger benefit, the higher earner's decision about when to claim matters for both spouses. Delaying it increases the check the survivor may live on.
Many couples can claim one benefit first and switch to the other later. Which order works best depends on both spouses' ages and earnings records.
Divorced spouses
If you were married for at least 10 years and you are unmarried, you may qualify for a benefit based on your former spouse's record once you are 62, even if they have not remarried or claimed. Claiming does not reduce what your former spouse receives.
Why couples should plan together
Both spouses' ages, earnings records, health, and other savings affect the best strategy. A decision that looks fine for one person can reduce the survivor's income later. It is worth reviewing the combined picture before either person files.
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Common questions
How much is a spousal Social Security benefit?
Up to 50% of the worker's full retirement age benefit, if claimed at the spouse's own full retirement age. It is reduced if claimed earlier.
Can a widow or widower collect Social Security?
Yes. A survivor can generally receive the deceased spouse's benefit, up to 100% of it, and can claim as early as 60 with a reduction.
Can I collect on my ex-spouse's record?
If you were married at least 10 years, you are unmarried, and you are at least 62, you may qualify. It does not reduce your ex-spouse's benefit.
Does delaying help a spousal benefit?
No. Spousal benefits do not increase for delaying past full retirement age, but delaying does raise the worker's benefit, which can raise the survivor benefit.
This page is for general education only and is not investment, tax, or legal advice. Rules, limits, and ages change, and your situation is specific to you. Confirm current figures with the IRS, the Social Security Administration, OPM, or the TSP, and consult your own tax advisor or attorney before acting.
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