Here's How to Tell If You Qualify for Spousal Social Security Benefits

Core Points - Marital status affects not only taxes but also Social Security benefits, with spousal benefits allowing claims based on a spouse's work record [1] Eligibility Criteria - Spousal must already be receiving Social Security benefits, which can include retirement or disability benefits [3] - The marriage must have lasted at least one year, with exceptions for parents of a spouse's child under 16 or disabled, and for those entitled to benefits before marriage [4][5] - Claimants must be at least 62 years old, with an exception for those caring for a spouse's child under 16 or disabled [6][7] - The spousal benefit must be less than the benefit based on the claimant's own work history to be applicable [9]