Social Security spousal benefits depend on the claim age of the spouse and the primary insurance amount (PIA) of the retired worker on whose record they claim benefits. The term PIA references the benefit a retired worker will receive if they start Social Security at full retirement age (FRA), which is age 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later.

The Social Security Agency at this point does not have a specific timeframe as to when benefits will be adjusted.

Key Points You don’t need to still be married to claim Social Security on an ex-spouse’s record. It’s important to understand how spousal benefits work for divorcees. Time your filing right so your benefits provide the income you need throughout

Spousal benefits, in contrast, max out at 50% of what your spouse (or ex-spouse) collects at full retirement age. If that amount is $2,400, then your spousal benefit could be wort

If a financially well-off individual had multiple ex-spouses, could it happen that the multiple ex-spouses could each be collecting Social Security based on their own financial situation as compared to their rich ex-spouses?

In most cases, delaying Social Security benefits is a smart choice for retirees. While benefits can be claimed starting at 62, putting off a claim as long as possible until 70 will result in the amount of your monthly payment increasing.

Most Americans rely on Social Security to make ends meet, with a 2024 Gallup poll finding that 60% of retirees say their benefits are a "major" source of income. But understanding how the program works -- and maximizing your checks -- is often easier said than done.

Whether you're ready to apply or looking to learn more about applying for Social Security, we'll fill you in on the details.