Marriage, Divorce, and Social Security in 2025: Key Changes You Need to Know

Deciding to change your marital status is a life-altering choice, but when it comes to Social Security benefits, the implications can be particularly complex. While love should be the driving force behind such decisions, understanding how your benefits may change is essential.

Qualifying for Spousal Benefits

Marriage can bring financial advantages for those with low Social Security pensions, as spouses may qualify for spousal benefits. However, specific conditions must be met:

• You must be married for at least a year.
• Be at least 62 years old, or any age if caring for a dependent child under 16 or with a disability entitled to your spouse’s benefits.

If these criteria are met, you could receive up to 50% of your spouse’s Full Retirement Age (FRA) benefit. However, claiming spousal benefits is a permanent decision, so it’s crucial to explore all options before proceeding.

Special Cases: Caring for a Dependent Child

Some individuals may qualify earlier or for a higher amount if they meet these conditions:

• The child is under 16.
• The child has a disability and qualifies for benefits through your spouse.

This can provide critical financial support for families with dependents.

Understanding Deemed Filing

The Social Security Administration (SSA) introduced a rule known as “deemed filing,” which requires individuals to claim both their retirement and spousal benefits simultaneously. This ensures a fair system for delaying benefits.

For example, if you are entitled to $1,000 in retirement benefits and $1,300 from your spouse’s account, you will receive $1,300, combining $1,000 from your account with $300 from your spouse’s benefit.

However, exceptions exist for survivor benefits, disability benefits, or caring for a child, allowing flexibility in how benefits are claimed.

Divorce and Social Security

Divorce adds another layer of complexity to Social Security benefits. Ex-spouses can claim benefits if:

• The marriage lasted at least 10 years.
• They are at least 62 years old.

These benefits do not affect your ex-spouse’s current spouse. However, remarrying disqualifies you from receiving benefits from a prior spouse’s record unless the second marriage ends in divorce or death.

Making the Right Choice

Whether you’re considering marriage, divorce, or remarriage, understanding Social Security rules is critical. These decisions could significantly impact your financial stability. Consulting with a financial advisor or the SSA can help ensure you make informed choices that work in your best interest.