Atlanta, Georgia (AP) – Social Security is a crucial program for seniors, but understanding its complexities can be time-consuming. Familiarizing oneself with the program’s rules is essential for effective retirement planning. Below are key points to consider when it comes to Social Security spousal benefits.
First, it’s important to note that spousal benefits are capped at 50% of what your spouse is eligible to receive from the program. This means that your monthly payment cannot exceed half of your spouse’s potential benefit.
For married individuals, it’s crucial to wait for your spouse to file for Social Security before you can claim spousal benefits. However, if you are divorced, you may have the option to file for spousal benefits before your ex-spouse does.
Unlike personal benefits, there is no advantage to delaying a spousal benefit claim. Once you reach full retirement age, it is recommended to sign up for spousal benefits to avoid reduced monthly payments.
In the unfortunate event of your spouse’s passing, your spousal benefits will convert to survivors benefits, providing you with 100% of the monthly benefit your spouse was entitled to receive. It’s important to note that you can only receive one type of benefit at a time – either spousal benefits or survivors benefits.
Understanding the intricacies of Social Security spousal benefits is crucial for effective retirement planning. By educating yourself on the program’s features, you can approach retirement with confidence and security.