Welfare Info

Social Security Spouse's Insurance Benefits

These are benefits paid to the spouse of a worker who receives Social Security Retirement or Disability benefits. To qualify for this benefit program, you must meet all of the following requirements: Be married for at least one year to someo...

What is Social Security Spouse's Insurance Benefits?

The Social Security Spouse Benefits are a federally funded program administered by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). These are benefits paid to the spouse of a worker who receives Social Security Retirement or Disability benefits.

Program Requirements

To be eligible for Social Security Spouse's benefits, you must:

  • Be married for at least one continuous year to someone who receives Social Security retirement or disability benefits;
  • Be at least 62 years old or caring for a child (under age 16 or disabled) of the retired or disabled worker; and
  • Not be getting a higher Social Security retirement benefit based on your own work.

If you would like to find out if you may be eligible for any of the benefits SSA administers, take SSA’s Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool.

Once you have completed the eligibility screening questionnaire, you will be provided with a list of benefits for which you may be eligible. Print this page for your records before going to the application site.

Application Details

What is the application process for Social Security Spouse's Insurance Benefits?

Once you know which benefits you may be eligible for, visit the Apply For Social Security Benefits webpage to apply online.