Millions of Americans could see their retirement budgets swell next year after the Social Security Administration confirmed that qualifying spouses—and even former spouses—may receive up to 50 percent of their partner’s full‑retirement‑age benefit.
The 50 percent ceiling is not new, but the agency’s fresh guidance clarifies deadlines and age rules for the 2025 benefit cycle, giving couples and divorcees a clear path to larger checks. Wondering whether you (or your ex) make the cut?
What the 50 percent spousal and former spouse benefit actually means in 2025 for retirees planning household income
At full retirement age (FRA)—currently 66 to 67 depending on birth year—a qualifying spouse may collect one‑half of the worker’s “primary insurance amount.” That figure is locked in at the worker’s FRA and does not grow if the worker delays claiming, so the spousal share is always based on the baseline benefit, not any delayed‑retirement credits.
Claim earlier and the math changes fast: filing at 62 trims the share to as little as 32.5 percent and the cut is permanent. Still, the new notice reiterates that caregivers for children under 16—or those caring for a disabled child—can draw the full 50 percent even before reaching FRA.
Below, the eligibility checklist for married couples, divorcees and caregivers under the new SSA guidance on spousal benefits. You’re likely eligible if you can say “yes” to all items below:
- Your spouse (or ex‑spouse) has already filed for retirement or disability benefits.
- You are at least 62—or any age if caring for a qualifying child.
- Your own retirement benefit is smaller than the potential spousal amount.
- If divorced, the marriage lasted 10 years and you are single today.
| Status | Minimum age | Key extra rule | Max share at FRA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Married | 62 | Spouse must be receiving benefits | 50 % |
| Divorced | 62 | Marriage of 10 years, currently unmarried | 50 % |
| Caregiver | any | Child under 16 or disabled child in care | 50 % |
Even better, claiming a spousal check does not cut into the worker’s own payment—both benefits are paid in full.
Filing ages, payment reductions and practical tips to maximize your monthly check before the 2025 rollout
First, map out each partner’s FRA and plug the numbers into the my Social Security calculator (it’s free and takes minutes). Second, decide who files first: sometimes the lower‑earning spouse files early while the higher earner waits for a bigger personal benefit. Finally, review “deemed filing” rules—anyone eligible for both their own and a spousal benefit after 2025 will be considered to have applied for each at the same time, so the higher amount automatically kicks in.
Need a quick gut check? Ask yourself, “Could delaying my claim unlock a larger survivor benefit for my partner later on?” If the answer is yes, a short wait may pay lifelong dividends.