When Can a Spouse Claim Spousal Social Security Benefits? A 2026 Guide

Understanding when a spouse can claim spousal social security benefits is crucial for anyone planning their retirement income. In 2026, these rules remain a critical part of Social Security strategy for married couples and divorced individuals. This guide breaks down the timing and eligibility requirements you need to know.

Spousal Eligibility: When Can a Spouse Actually File?

The key question many couples ask is: when can a spouse claim spousal social security benefits? The answer depends on whether you’re married or divorced. For married individuals, a spouse can claim spousal social security benefits only after the primary earner has already filed for their own benefits. Your spouse cannot sign up for spousal benefits before you’ve submitted your Social Security application.

However, the rules differ if you’re divorced. If you were married for at least 10 years, you can claim spousal benefits based on your ex-spouse’s record even if they haven’t filed yet—though they must be at least 62 years old. This distinction matters significantly when planning your household’s Social Security strategy.

Age Matters: When Should a Spouse Claim?

The earliest age when a spouse can claim any Social Security benefits is 62. This applies equally to both retirement benefits on your own record and spousal benefits. However, timing your claim strategically can substantially impact your monthly payment.

When a spouse claims spousal benefits before their full retirement age (67 for those born in 1960 or later), the monthly payments get reduced. This reduction can be permanent—you won’t recover those lost dollars later. If claiming before full retirement age means accepting significantly lower benefits, it may be worth waiting.

Here’s an important detail: there’s no financial advantage to delaying spousal benefits past your full retirement age. Unlike retirement benefits based on your own earnings, spousal benefits cap out at 50% of what your spouse receives at their full retirement age. If your spouse’s full retirement age benefit is $2,000, your maximum spousal benefit tops out at $1,000. Waiting past 67 won’t increase that $1,000—it stays the same. This means if you’re healthy and can afford to wait, claim right at full retirement age rather than earlier.

Avoiding the Common Mistake: Double-Dipping Doesn’t Work

One misconception about Social Security is that a spouse can collect both their own benefits and full spousal benefits simultaneously. This isn’t accurate. You can qualify for both types of benefits, but Social Security will pay whichever amount is higher—not both combined.

For example, suppose you’re eligible for $1,200 monthly based on your own work history, and your spouse’s record would provide $1,000 in spousal benefits. Social Security will pay you the $1,200—your higher benefit—but only that amount. You don’t receive an additional $1,000 on top. Understanding this prevents unrealistic expectations about your retirement income.

When planning around when a spouse can claim spousal social security benefits, remember that Social Security pays the greater of the two benefit amounts, not a combination. This rule has become especially important since policy changes limited the ability to coordinate spousal claims strategically. Budget based on the single higher benefit, not the sum of both.

Making Your Decision

Deciding when a spouse should claim spousal social security benefits requires considering your household’s overall financial picture, health prospects, and other retirement income sources. A spouse who faces financial hardship might need to claim at 62 despite the reduction. Someone with strong health and adequate savings might benefit from waiting until full retirement age to maximize the monthly payment.

The timing of when a spouse can claim spousal social security benefits ultimately depends on your personal circumstances and the rules outlined above. Take time to discuss this decision with your spouse and consider consulting with a financial advisor to ensure you’re making the choice that works best for your retirement security.