At age 62, a worker typically need 40 work credits to apply for Social Security retirement benefits. That’s nearly ten years of work. Nevertheless, this is only feasible if you have worked. Many US citizens are unable to work for a variety of reasons. Some have cared for their children, while others have worked in non-SSA occupations or in another country.
Who is eligible for Social Security if they have never worked before? Spouses may be eligible for benefits based on their spouse’s records. Of course, they must meet a number of conditions.
When can a spouse receive Social Security payments?
Check it if you have never worked and your spouse has worked long enough to qualify for retirement benefits and is ready to retire. Once a worker files for retirement benefits, their spouse may also be eligible.
Obviously, your benefit payment will be calculated based on the worker’s earnings. The Agency requires that the spouse be at least 62 years old. For example, if the worker is 62 and the spouse is 61, the latter is not yet qualified.
Having a qualifying kid may qualify you for Social Security spousal benefits, even if you are not 62 years old. A eligible child is defined by the Social Security Administration as a child under the age of 16 who receives disability benefits.
How much can Social Security spousal benefits be?
The Administration verified that the spouse benefit can be up to half of the employee’s primary insurance coverage. This will be determined by the spouse’s retirement age when they retire.
Remember that if a spouse starts collecting Social Security before reaching Full Retirement Age, their benefits will be decreased. Having an eligible child to look after allows you to receive the full amount, so your benefits will not be cut.
As of October 2024, the average spousal benefit is approximately $910. Payments to family members do not affect a worker’s retirement benefit.
Also See: United States: Modifying Benefit Amounts By The Social Security Administration in Starting of 2025