Navigating Social Security benefits can feel complicated, especially for retirees who want to make the most out of their retirement income. Did you know there are ways to claim multiple Social Security checks? This guide explains how retirees can use strategies like spousal benefits, survivor benefits, and more to maximize their income. Let’s dive in!
How Spousal Benefits Work
Spousal benefits let a lower-earning spouse receive up to 50% of their higher-earning partner’s benefit. Here’s how it works:
- Who Can Qualify?
A lower-earning or non-working spouse can qualify if the higher-earning spouse has filed for their own benefits. The claiming spouse must also be at least 62 years old. - What to Watch Out For:
If you claim before reaching your full retirement age, your spousal benefits will be reduced.
Understanding Survivor Benefits
When a spouse passes away, the surviving partner can claim the deceased spouse’s full Social Security benefits. Here’s what you need to know:
- Eligibility:
Survivor benefits can start at age 60, or as early as 50 if you are disabled. - Important Tip:
Claiming survivor benefits before your full retirement age will lower the amount you receive each month.
Divorced Spouse Benefits Explained
If you’ve been divorced, you may still be able to claim Social Security benefits based on your ex-spouse’s earnings record.
- Key Requirements:
- You must have been married for at least 10 years.
- You must remain unmarried and be at least 62 years old.
- Extra Note:
Even if your ex hasn’t filed for their benefits, you can still claim as long as the divorce has been final for at least two years.
Benefits for Children
Children of retired, disabled, or deceased workers may also qualify for Social Security benefits.
- Who is Eligible?
Biological, adopted, or dependent stepchildren who are unmarried and:- Under 18, or
- Up to 19 if still in high school.
- Special Rule for Disabled Children:
Disabled children can get benefits even as adults, as long as their disability began before age 22.
Family Maximum Benefit
Social Security limits the total amount a family can receive from one worker’s earnings record. This is called the Family Maximum Benefit. If the total benefits for a family exceed this limit, the Social Security Administration reduces each member’s share proportionally. This rule applies to benefits for children, spouses, and other dependents.
FAQs About Social Security Benefits
- Can I receive both my own Social Security benefit and a spousal benefit?
No. Social Security pays only the higher amount between the two. - How does remarriage affect survivor benefits?
If you remarry before age 60 (or 50 if disabled), you usually lose survivor benefits. Remarrying after age 60 doesn’t affect eligibility. - Are child benefits subject to the family maximum benefit limit?
Yes. If the family’s total benefits exceed the limit, each person’s benefit may be reduced. - Can divorced spouses claim benefits if the ex hasn’t retired yet?
Yes, as long as the divorce has been finalized for at least two years. - Do spousal benefits increase if claimed later?
No. Unlike personal Social Security benefits, spousal benefits don’t increase after full retirement age.
