1. What Are SSA Spousal Benefits?

Spousal benefits are Social Security benefits that may be paid to the spouse of a retired or disabled worker. These benefits can provide up to 50% of the worker's primary insurance amount (PIA).

2. How Are Spousal Benefits Calculated?

The basic calculation for spousal benefits is:

Where:

• PIA — Primary Insurance Amount (the worker's full retirement benefit)
• 0.5 — Maximum spousal benefit factor (50% of PIA)

Note: The actual benefit amount may be reduced if claimed before full retirement age or if subject to family maximum rules.

3. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for spousal benefits:

• You must be married for at least 1 year (or be the parent of the worker's child)
• Your spouse must be receiving retirement or disability benefits
• You must be at least 62 years old (or caring for a qualifying child)

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions: Enter the worker's Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) in dollars per month to calculate the maximum potential spousal benefit.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can divorced spouses receive benefits?
A: Yes, if the marriage lasted at least 10 years, you're unmarried, and you're at least 62 years old.

Q2: What if I have my own work record?
A: You'll receive either your own benefit or the spousal benefit, whichever is higher - not both.

Q3: How does early retirement affect spousal benefits?
A: Claiming before full retirement age permanently reduces benefits (to as low as 32.5% of PIA at age 62).

Q4: What's the maximum family benefit?
A: There's a family maximum that may reduce benefits if multiple family members qualify (150-180% of PIA typically).

Q5: Do spousal benefits continue after divorce?
A: Yes, if the marriage lasted 10+ years and you meet other requirements, benefits continue even after divorce.