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As of May 2025, married couples in the United States may be eligible for an average combined Social Security payment of $2,909 per month.
This amount includes the primary earner’s benefit and the spousal benefit, which can be up to 50% of the primary earner’s benefit at full retirement age (FRA) .
Social Security Benefits for Married Couples in 2025
| Benefit Type | Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Earner’s Benefit | Varies based on earnings history | Must have sufficient work credits and be at least 62 years old |
| Spousal Benefit | Up to 50% of primary earner’s FRA benefit | Spouse must be at least 62 years old; primary earner must be receiving benefits |
| Combined Average Payment | $2,909 per month | Based on average primary and spousal benefits |
Who Qualifies for the $2,909 Combined Benefit?
To qualify for the combined average benefit:
- Primary Earner: Must have earned sufficient work credits (typically 40 credits or 10 years of work) and be at least 62 years old.
- Spouse: Must be at least 62 years old and married to the primary earner for at least one year. The primary earner must be receiving Social Security benefits for the spouse to claim spousal benefits .
Note: If the spouse has their own work history, they will receive either their own benefit or the spousal benefit, whichever is higher.
Payment Schedule for 2025
Social Security payments are issued based on the primary earner’s birth date:
- 1st–10th: Second Wednesday of each month
- 11th–20th: Third Wednesday of each month
- 21st–31st: Fourth Wednesday of each month
For those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 or receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), payments are made on the 3rd of each month .
Factors Affecting Benefit Amounts
Several factors can influence the total benefit amount:
- Earnings History: Higher lifetime earnings result in higher benefit.
- Age at Claiming: Claiming benefits before FRA (66 or 67, depending on birth year) results in reduced payments. Delaying benefits past FRA increases monthly payments up to age 70 .
- Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA): Benefits are adjusted annually for inflation.
- Working While Receiving Benefits: Earnings above certain thresholds can temporarily reduce benefits if under FRA .
Tips to Maximize Benefits
- Delay Claiming: Waiting until age 70 to claim benefits can maximize monthly payments.
- Coordinate with Spouse: Strategize with your spouse on when each of you should claim benefits to maximize combined income.
- Review Earnings Record: Regularly check your Social Security earnings record for accuracy.
- Consider Spousal Benefits: If one spouse has significantly lower earnings, spousal benefits can provide additional income.
Understanding the intricacies of Social Security benefits is crucial for married couples planning for retirement.
By coordinating benefit claims, considering spousal benefits, and being aware of factors that affect payment amounts, couples can maximize their monthly income.
Staying informed and planning ahead ensures financial stability during retirement.
FAQs
Can a divorced spouse receive spousal benefits?
Yes, if the marriage lasted at least 10 years, the individual is unmarried, and the ex-spouse is eligible for Social Security benefits.
What happens if both spouses have their own work history?
Each spouse will receive their own benefit amount. If one spouse’s benefit is less than half of the other’s, they may receive a spousal supplement to equal 50% of the higher benefit.
Are Social Security benefits taxable?
Yes, depending on your combined income. If your combined income exceeds certain thresholds, up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable.