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Program Description

You may be able to get spouse's benefits, even if you've never worked under Social Security before.

General Program Requirements

For you to qualify for spouse benefits, you must meet the conditions below:

  • Be married to a spouse who already gets retirement or disability benefits.
  • Be married to your spouse for at least one year or be the parent of their natural child.
  • Be at least age 62, or under 62 and caring for the spouse's child who is under age 16 or has a disability.

Other terms and conditions also apply.

Application Process

Visit the Benefits For Your Spouse and Benefits For Your Divorced Spouse pages for details on how to apply.

To learn about Social Security benefits you may qualify for, use the SSA BEST (Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool). When you complete the questionnaire, you get a list of benefits to review. You can print this page for your records.

To apply for benefits, visit the Apply for Social Security Benefits page. You can also call to get benefit information and learn how to apply.

Last Updated: 05/08/2023