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.

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

A big concern surrounding retirement is wondering how much money you'll receive once you apply for Social Security benefits. Knowing how much you'll be bringing in will allow you to comfortably make adjustments in order to plan for your future.

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 worth up to $1,200, but not more.

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.

Social Security is a cornerstone of retirement income for many Americans, yet the amount you receive isn't set in stone. Understanding how to optimize your benefits can significantly impact your financial future.