Understanding Social Security spousal benefits eligibility in 2025

Social Security spousal benefits allow individuals to claim benefits based on their spouse's work history. This can be more advantageous if the spouse earned significantly more or if the individual's work history is limited. To qualify for spousal benefits, individuals must be married for at least one year, be at least 62 years old, or care for a disabled child under 16. The spouse must also be receiving retirement benefits. Spousal benefits are calculated based on the spouse's full retirement age benefit, which is 67. Recipients can receive between 32.5% and 50% of their spouse's benefits, depending on when they start receiving them.