Navigating Social Security can feel complex, especially when it comes to spousal and survivor benefits.
But understanding how these programs work can help you and your loved ones secure the financial support you deserve.
Here’s what you need to know.
Spousal Benefits: Supporting Your Partner
If your husband isn’t eligible for Social Security benefits on his own record or has a small benefit, he may qualify for spousal benefits under your record.
This is especially helpful for households where one partner was the primary earner.
Here’s how spousal benefits work:
- Eligibility: You must be claiming your own benefits for your spouse to qualify.
- Amount: At his Full Retirement Age (FRA), your husband could receive up to 50% of your benefit amount at your FRA. Claiming benefits early will reduce this amount.
- Government Pension Offset (GPO): If your husband receives a government pension from a federal, state, or local job, the GPO may reduce his spousal benefit. While it doesn’t eliminate the benefit outright, it’s important to check how much of an offset applies.
Survivor Benefits: Financial Support After a Loss
If you pass away before your husband, he may be eligible for survivor benefits. These are different from spousal benefits and can be a lifeline for widowed spouses.
- Eligibility: Survivor benefits are based on your record, and the amount depends on the benefits you were receiving, including any delayed credits earned by waiting past your FRA to claim.
- Amount: Survivor benefits can equal up to 100% of what you were receiving. Since your husband is past his FRA, he should qualify for the maximum survivor benefit available.
- Application: If he’s not already receiving benefits, he’ll need to apply for survivor benefits. If he’s receiving spousal benefits, Social Security will automatically switch him to survivor benefits upon your passing.
Additional Benefits
The Social Security Administration also provides a one-time $255 lump sum to survivors upon a beneficiary’s death.
Your husband would need to apply for this payment separately.
How to Plan and Take Action
- Create Online Accounts: Both you and your husband should set up accounts on the Social Security Administration’s website. This allows you to check your benefits, review work history, and ensure personal information is accurate.
- Understand the GPO: If the Government Pension Offset applies, you’ll want to review how it impacts your benefits and plan accordingly.
- Plan Your Finances Together: Use these insights to assess your current and future financial situation. If needed, consult with a financial advisor to discuss other strategies for protecting your long-term finances.
Taking the time to understand spousal and survivor benefits can make a big difference for your household.
By planning ahead and leveraging these programs, you can create a more secure future for you and your loved ones.
Protect your family. Plan wisely.
Previous article: Understanding Jobless Benefits: A Lifeline for Americans During Economic Transitions
-
Get the latest updates and tips delivered straight to your inbox!
Subscribe Now to explore exclusive benefits, eligibility insights, and more resources.
