15 Ways to Get More Social Security

Take advantage of spousal benefits

Social Security spousal benefits can be a boon if your life partner has earned much more than you have. You’re able to receive either a benefit based on your own earnings or one that’s equal to 50% of your spouse’s benefit.

Your spouse’s payments won’t be affected if you decide to collect a spousal benefit. Divorce doesn’t necessarily alter the equation. As long as the marriage lasted over 10 years and you have not remarried, you can draw Social Security benefits based on a former spouse’s earnings.