Social Security Spousal Benefits: Maximizing Family Income
By Social Security Administration | 8 min read
Maximize Social Security benefits for married couples. SSA guidance on spousal and survivor benefit strategies.
Married couples have additional Social Security claiming strategies. Spousal benefits: Up to 50% of higher earner's benefit at full retirement age, Available even if spouse never worked, Reduced if claimed before full retirement age, Does not reduce worker's benefit. Survivor benefits: Up to 100% of deceased spouse's benefit, Available as early as age 60 (50 if disabled), Can switch between own and survivor benefits. Timing strategies can maximize lifetime benefits.\n\n**Related Resources**\n- [Financial Planning Tools](/tools)\n- [Budget Calculator](/budget-planner)\n- [Credit Guide](/category/Debt%20%26%20Credit)\n- [Money Saving Tips](/category/Save%20Money)