From the outset, you should know how Social Security retirement benefits work. In this way, you could get more money when you file. The more cash you get as a retiree, the better quality of life you will have.
If you have never worked, you can never get benefits on your own record. What is more, some jobs are not covered by Social Security. As they do not pay any taxes to Social Security, you cannot claim retirement benefits.
Apart from that, some workers may have started working later than usual for different reasons, so they may not have worked for at least ten years when they reach the age to retire. Ten years of work is the minimum to get retirement benefits from SSA. But what about spousal benefits?
MARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR SPOUSE’S BENEFITS IN THE UNITED STATES
The Social Security Administration has informed of the 2024 requirements for spouse’s benefits on Twitter. As a matter of fact, you must have been married for at least one year before you can claim spouse’s benefits in the United States.
Therefore, it is not possible to get spouse’s benefits if you have been married for just a few months. Even if your wife or husband is entitled to Social Security retirement benefits, you cannot claim them yet. Unless you meet one requirement.
The Social Security Administration claims that there is an exception to the 1-year rule. If you are the parent of your spouse’s kid, SSA will not take into account the one-year rule.
Therefore, if your spouse and you have a child, you will receive spouse’s benefits while your spouse collects retirement checks. But there are some people who are no longer married, so what about them?
CAN I GET SPOUSE’S BENEFITS WHEN MY EX-SPOUSE STARTS GETTING RETIREMENT BENEFITS?
If your ex-spouse begins receiving Social Security retirement benefits, you may be eligible for monthly benefits too. However, this is not possible for everyone, because there are strict rules you must meet.
Actually, the Social Security has informed that a divorced spouse may get spouse’s benefits if they have been married for at least 10 years. Hence, if you have only been married for a few months or years, you will not get spouse’s benefits.
Retirement benefits could be larger if you follow these tips. File at the age of 70 to get a 24% reward from the Administration. Work for a minimum of 35 years and make sure your wage is high.
Only those who earn the taxable maximum for 35 years can receive a retirement payment worth up to $4,873 in 2024. So, apply for spouse’s benefits when your spouse files for Social Security if eligible.
