Claim a Spousal Benefit
After using a calculator to figure out the best way to deal with benefits as a couple, you might decide to claim the spousal benefit. For example, if your spouse paid into Social Security for at least 10 years — but you didn’t, or your earnings were less than his — you can claim a spousal benefit. And the amount could be as much as half of what your spouse is entitled to at full retirement age. Remember, however, that you can claim the spousal benefit only if your spouse has already filed for a retirement or disability benefit.
