Q & A
What are the benefit amounts for which a spouse may be entitled?
Answer: A spouse receives one-half of the retired worker’s full benefit if the spouse retires at full retirement age. If the spouse begins collecting benefits before full retirement age, we reduce those benefits by a percentage based on how much earlier the spouse retires.
However, if a spouse is taking care of a child who is either under age 16 or disabled and receiving Social Security benefits, a spouse gets full (one-half) benefits, regardless of age. If you are eligible for both your own retirement benefit and for benefits as a spouse, we always pay your own benefit first. If your benefit as a spouse is higher than your retirement benefit, you’ll receive a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse’s benefit. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov.
Source: http://www.times-standard.com/boomers – 11/12/2013