Unlock $910/Month in Social Security Benefits in 2025—Even If You’ve Never Had a Job

Not everyone who receives Social Security benefits has a work history. While most workers need 40 credits (around 10 years of work) to qualify for retirement benefits, spouses who have never worked may still be eligible under certain conditions.

Eligibility for Spousal Benefits

Spouses can receive Social Security benefits based on their partner’s work record. The key requirements include:

• The working spouse must have earned enough credits and applied for retirement benefits.
• The non-working spouse must be at least 62 years old.

An exception exists for spouses caring for a qualifying child — a child under 16 or receiving disability benefits. In such cases, there is no minimum age requirement for spousal benefits.

How Much Can Spouses Receive?

Spousal benefits can be up to 50% of the working spouse’s primary insurance amount (PIA). However:

• If the non-working spouse begins collecting benefits before full retirement age, their payments will be reduced.
• Full benefits are available only if the spouse waits until full retirement age or qualifies through a child’s care.

As of October 2024, the average spousal benefit is $910 monthly. Importantly, these payments do not reduce the working spouse’s retirement benefit.

Key Considerations

Spousal benefits provide financial security for those who haven’t worked, such as caregivers or individuals with non-covered employment. Understanding the eligibility and benefit structure helps families maximize their Social Security income.