Many adults in the U.S. rely on Social Security benefits during retirement, with nearly 90% of individuals aged 65 and older receiving a monthly check, according to 2024 data from the Social Security Administration. While Social Security retirement benefits are the most common, they are not available to everyone. To qualify for retirement benefits, you generally need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years.
However, even if you have little to no work history, there are still ways to receive Social Security benefits. Here are some options to consider:
1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a program designed to assist those with limited income and resources. It provides benefits to individuals who are either elderly, disabled, or blind. The eligibility requirements for SSI are strict:
- For individuals, you must have less than $2,000 in resources, while married couples must have under $3,000.
- If you’re under 65, you must also have a disability that limits your ability to work. However, if you’re 65 or older, you can qualify for SSI without a disability, as long as you meet the income and resource requirements.
In 2024, the maximum SSI payment is $943 per month for individuals and $1,415 per month for married couples.
2. Spousal Benefits
If you’re married to someone who qualifies for Social Security benefits, you may be eligible to receive spousal benefits. This allows you to collect a monthly check based on your spouse’s earnings, even if you have no work history of your own.
- The maximum spousal benefit is 50% of your spouse’s full retirement benefit, but you must wait until your full retirement age to receive the full amount. If you file early, your benefits will be reduced.
- If you have your own work history and Social Security benefits, you will only receive the larger of the two amounts – not both.
3. Divorce Benefits
If you are divorced and your marriage lasted at least 10 years, you may qualify for divorce benefits. These benefits are similar to spousal benefits, but they are available even if you’re no longer married. To qualify:
- Your ex-spouse must be eligible for Social Security benefits, and if you’ve been divorced for less than two years, you must wait until your ex-spouse begins claiming benefits.
- The maximum divorce benefit is 50% of your ex-spouse’s full benefit amount, and it doesn’t impact their benefit amount or their current spouse’s ability to claim spousal benefits.
4. Survivors Benefits
If your spouse passes away, you may be eligible for survivors benefits. These benefits are generally available to widows and widowers, but in some cases, other family members such as parents, children, or even divorced spouses, may qualify.
- A widow or widower can receive up to 100% of their deceased spouse’s benefit amount.
- The amount you’ll receive depends on your relationship to the deceased and how many other people are claiming benefits from their Social Security record.
Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits
If you qualify for Social Security but haven’t worked enough to earn retirement benefits, there are still several options to maximize your income. Being aware of these programs and how they work can provide valuable extra income, especially for those who are elderly, disabled, or facing financial challenges.
Additionally, many retirees overlook potential Social Security bonuses. In fact, there’s one strategy that could provide as much as $22,924 more each year. If you’re interested in learning how to boost your Social Security benefits, consider exploring these lesser-known secrets to help you retire with more financial security.
By understanding all the Social Security options available to you, you can make the most of what’s offered and ensure a more comfortable retirement, no matter your work history.
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