Social Security is a vital source of retirement income for most people. For this reason, it is important to understand how the spousal benefit works and how it can impact the amount of Social Security income you receive.
As a spouse, you can claim a Social Security benefit based on your own earnings record, or collect a spousal benefit in the amount of 50% of your spouse’s Social Security benefit, but not both. You are automatically entitled to receive whichever benefit provides you the higher monthly amount. To be eligible for spousal benefits, a current spouse must:
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