Social Security Spousal Benefits 2026: Social Security spousal benefits remain one of the most important income sources for retired couples in the United States. In 2026, several adjustments have taken effect, including a cost of living increase, changes in full retirement age, and updated calculation rules. While there is no single new law that completely overhauls spousal benefits, the combination of age thresholds, payment adjustments, and rule clarifications is creating what many are calling a “spousal benefit shake-up.”
This guide explains the 2026 updates, eligibility rules, payment calculations, and what married or divorced couples should know before claiming.
What Social Security Spousal Benefits Mean in 2026
A Social Security spousal benefit allows one spouse to receive a monthly payment based on the other spouse’s work record. This option is especially helpful when one partner has little or no earnings history.
In general, a qualifying spouse can receive up to 50 percent of the higher-earning spouse’s full retirement benefit.
However, the exact amount depends on age, filing timing, and whether the spouse is also eligible for benefits on their own record.
2026 Cost of Living Adjustment Brings Higher Payments
One of the most important updates for 2026 is the cost of living adjustment. Social Security payments increased by 2.8 percent starting in January 2026.
This increase applies to retirees, spouses, survivors, and disability recipients.
The average spousal benefit rose from about 954 dollars per month to roughly 981 dollars after the adjustment.
While the increase is modest, it helps payments keep up with inflation and rising living costs.
Full Retirement Age Reaches Its Final Stage
Another major change affecting spousal benefits is the full retirement age adjustment.
In 2026, the full retirement age reaches 67 for people born in 1960 or later.
This is important because spousal benefits are calculated based on the full retirement age of the spouse claiming the benefit.
If a spouse claims before reaching full retirement age, their monthly payment will be permanently reduced.
Key Eligibility Rules for Spousal Benefits
To qualify for a Social Security spousal benefit in 2026, applicants must meet certain requirements.
• Must be at least 62 years old
• Must be married to a worker receiving Social Security benefits
• Must have been married for at least one year
• Divorced spouses must have been married for at least 10 years
• Benefit amount is limited to up to 50 percent of the working spouse’s full retirement benefit
If both spouses qualify for their own retirement benefits, the Social Security Administration will pay the higher amount, not both combined.
How Spousal Benefits Are Calculated
Spousal benefit calculations are based on the higher-earning spouse’s full retirement benefit, not the amount they actually receive if they claim early.
Here is a simplified calculation example.
| Scenario | Higher Earner Full Benefit | Spousal Share (50%) | Actual Payment if Claimed Early |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full retirement age claim | $2,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Claim at age 62 | $2,000 | $1,000 | About $700 to $750 |
| Claim at age 67 | $2,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
Claiming before full retirement age can reduce the spousal benefit by up to about 30 percent.
Important Rule: Deemed Filing Still Applies
In 2026, the deemed filing rule continues to apply. This means when someone applies for Social Security, they are automatically considered to be applying for both their own retirement benefit and the spousal benefit.
They will receive whichever amount is higher, not both.
This rule prevents couples from using old strategies to claim one benefit while delaying the other.
Old Loopholes No Longer Available
In earlier years, couples could use the “file and suspend” strategy to maximize benefits. That option was eliminated after changes passed in 2015.
As of 2026, if a spouse suspends their benefit, other benefits on their record are also suspended.
This means couples must plan carefully and cannot rely on old loopholes.
Why Claiming Age Matters More in 2026
Because the full retirement age has now reached 67, the gap between early claiming at 62 and full retirement age is larger.
If a spouse claims at 62, they could receive about 30 percent less than the full amount.
This makes timing more important than ever, especially for couples planning long-term retirement income.
Conclusion
The 2026 Social Security spousal benefit updates are mainly driven by cost of living increases, the final rise in full retirement age, and continued enforcement of filing rules. While there is no single dramatic new law, these combined changes are reshaping how couples plan their retirement income.
With payments increasing slightly, full retirement age reaching 67, and old claiming strategies no longer available, couples must carefully consider when and how to apply. Proper planning can help maximize lifetime benefits and protect household income.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Benefit amounts and eligibility may vary based on individual circumstances.
FAQs
What is the maximum spousal benefit in 2026
A spouse can receive up to 50 percent of the higher earner’s full retirement benefit if they claim at full retirement age.
What is the average spousal payment in 2026
After the 2.8 percent COLA, the average spousal benefit is about 981 dollars per month.
Can both spouses receive Social Security benefits
Yes, each spouse can receive their own benefit or a spousal benefit, whichever is higher.
At what age can a spouse claim benefits
A spouse can claim as early as age 62, but the payment will be reduced.
What happens if the higher-earning spouse claims early
If the higher earner claims early, both their own and potential survivor benefits will be lower, which can affect the surviving spouse later.