Just like with Social Security retirement benefits, you need to be at least 62 years old to collect a spousal benefit on someone else's work record. The one exception is if you're caring for a child under 16 years old or who is disabled, and that child is also eligible for benefits based on your spouse's work record.

The average Social Security benefit paid to a retired worker reached an all-time high of $2,002.39 in May 2025. This surpasses last year’s average of $1,917, representing a notable increase within a year.

Social Security’s retirement benefits are a crucial source of income for older Americans, and many people look forward to the day when they can claim them and start enjoying the fruits of their labor.