Spousal Social Security Benefits Eligibility for Post-1954 Born Individuals Clarified

Spousal Social Security benefits remain available for individuals born after 1954, contrary to rumors of a complete phase-out. The Social Security Administration confirms that married individuals can claim up to 50% of their spouse’s full retirement benefit, provided they have reached full retirement age. This applies regardless of birth year, as long as the primary earner has filed for benefits. The change in rules, effective January 2023, eliminated the option to file a restricted application for spousal benefits only while delaying one’s own benefit. This means that if a spouse files for benefits before full retirement age, they must claim their own benefit or the spousal benefit—both reduced. For example, a spouse claiming at age 62 may receive only 32.5% of the primary earner’s full benefit, compared to 50% at full retirement age. The maximum spousal benefit is currently capped at $3,345 per month in 2026, based on the full retirement benefit of the primary earner. If the primary earner receives $6,690 monthly, the spouse may claim up to $3,345. This cap is adjusted annually using the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which was 3.2% in 2024 and projected at 3.0% for 2026. This policy affects millions of married couples, particularly in households where one partner has a significantly higher earnings history. While the change removes strategic planning options for younger retirees, it does not eliminate spousal benefits. The impact is felt most by individuals in dual-income households with substantial disparities in earnings, where the lower-earning spouse relies on Social Security as a core retirement income source.