How do I calculate my spouse’s benefit?
When your spouse applies for Social Security benefits, he or she will be eligible for the higher of two different amounts:
His or her own benefit or up to 50% of your benefit assuming you have applied for Social Security benefits.
If your spouse’s Social Security is based on his or her own work history, and the benefit is more than 50% of yours, your spouse will not be eligible for a spousal benefit.
When your spouse applies for Social Security benefits, he or she will be eligible for the higher of two different amounts:
His or her own benefit or up to 50% of your benefit assuming you have applied for Social Security benefits.
If your spouse’s Social Security is based on his or her own work history, and the benefit is more than 50% of yours, your spouse will not be eligible for a spousal benefit.