Question

After getting married, when can we start collecting our spouses' Social Security benefits?

Answer 1

The rules for collecting Social Security benefits based on your spouse's work record can vary based on your age, marital status, and other factors. Here are some general guidelines:

1. If you are currently married: You can start collecting spousal benefits based on your spouse's work record once you reach age 62, provided your spouse is already receiving their own Social Security retirement benefits. However, if you start collecting before your full retirement age (FRA), your spousal benefit will be reduced.

2. If you are divorced: If you are divorced, you may be eligible to collect spousal benefits based on your ex-spouse's work record if your marriage lasted for at least ten years, you are currently unmarried, and both you and your ex-spouse are at least 62 years old. Additionally, your ex-spouse must be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits.

3. If you are widowed: If your spouse has passed away, you can start collecting survivor benefits as early as age 60 (or age 50 if you are disabled). However, again, if you start collecting before your full retirement age, the survivor benefit will be reduced.

4. Full Retirement Age (FRA): Your FRA depends on your birth year. For individuals born between 1943 and 1954, the FRA is 66. It gradually increases for those born later, up to 67 for individuals born in 1960 or later.

5. Maximum Benefits: Your spousal benefit amount can be up to 50% of your spouse's full retirement age benefit amount. If you start collecting before your FRA, the benefit will be reduced based on the number of months ahead of your FRA you begin collecting.

6. Earning Limitations: If you continue to work while collecting Social Security benefits before your FRA, there may be earnings limitations that could reduce your benefits.

It's important to note that Social Security rules can be complex, and individual circumstances may vary. For personalized advice, you should contact the Social Security Administration or consult with a financial advisor to determine the best strategy for claiming benefits based on your specific situation.