As you plan for your retirement, understanding the intricacies of Social Security benefits can play a crucial role in securing your financial future.
One aspect of Social Security benefits that often remains misunderstood is spousal benefits.
If you’re eligible for Social Security based on your own work history, you might still be entitled to additional benefits through your spouse’s record.
Let’s delve into the concept of spousal benefits, how they work, and how you can maximize your retirement income.
To be eligible for Social Security benefits in retirement, you need to have earned money and paid into the system via payroll taxes during your working years.
The amount you earn renders you eligible for work credits, with a maximum of four credits obtainable each year.
In total, you need 40 work credits to qualify for Social Security based on your own earnings record.
However, even if you haven’t accumulated enough work credits or didn’t work at all, you may still be eligible for Social Security benefits if you are or were married to someone who qualifies.
Spousal benefits can be a lifeline for seniors who would otherwise not receive Social Security benefits based on their own work history.
Spousal benefits are worth 50% of what your current or former spouse receives in Social Security, provided you wait until full retirement age to sign up for them.
This means that if your spouse is eligible for a $3,000 monthly Social Security benefit, you’d get a $1,500 monthly spousal benefit once you reach full retirement age.
If you are entitled to a monthly income from Social Security based on your own earnings, you can still collect spousal benefits. However, you cannot receive both benefits simultaneously.
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Maximizing Your Retirement Income
Social Security will ensure that you receive the higher amount you are entitled to—either your own benefit or the spousal benefit.
It’s worth noting that while you can increase your personal Social Security benefit by delaying your filing past full retirement age, you cannot grow a spousal benefit.
Therefore, when deciding on the best strategy, you must consider how the timing of your filing affects both your personal benefit and any potential spousal benefits.
Additionally, if you’re married, you’ll have to wait for your spouse to sign up for Social Security before you’re eligible for spousal benefits.
However, if you’re divorced, you don’t have to wait for your ex-spouse to file, giving you more flexibility in claiming these benefits.
In conclusion, Social Security spousal benefits can be a valuable source of income for retirees. If you find yourself in a position to collect spousal benefits, it’s essential to educate yourself on the rules and regulations to make informed decisions about your retirement income.
By understanding how spousal benefits work and coordinating them with your own benefits, you can maximize your Social Security benefits and enjoy a more financially secure retirement.
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Source: Fool