A marriage certificate is a treasured document. It has immense sentimental value. Much more than a piece of paper, marriage certificates publicly acknowledge a couple’s devotion to each other. Some couples display their framed certificates proudly. Others keep these papers stored away safely.
This crucial document can also help ensure you qualify for a portion of your spouse’s social security benefits. Have peace of mind. These benefits can be helpful, especially if you’re retired or otherwise not earning an income.
You’re about to learn how to present your marriage certificate, unlocking your ability to receive a portion of your spouse’s social security benefits. We’ll also cover how your entitlements differ based on whether you’re married, divorced, or widowed.
Why Is a Marriage Certificate Vital?
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Understandably, considerable fraud could occur if the government took everyone at their word when disbursing benefits. Because of that, you must verify you’re married to someone receiving Social Security benefits before you can claim them. You accomplish this goal by having a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
If you’re unable to provide this critical proof, the Social Security Administration (SSA) won’t allow you to receive spousal benefits. That also includes survivor benefits, which you can receive after your spouse passes away. You must provide a marriage certificate no matter how long you were or are married to someone.
The Three Types of Social Security a Spouse May Qualify For
People don’t receive the same Social Security benefits. The amount you’re eligible to receive hinges on the status of your marriage and other key variables. Key details. Here’s more information about the main types of entitlements offered by the SSA and how they differ. Critical info.
Spousal Benefits
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For those currently married to a living partner, pursuing Social Security payments as a spouse can be beneficial. Significant aid. However, not all who request these entitlements meet the criteria for approval. Eligibility required. If approved, you may access as much as 50% of your partner’s payments.
In this case, you’re eligible if you meet one of these conditions:
- You’re at least 62.
- You care for a child under 16 years old or someone receiving disability benefits from the SSA.
Your age is also a vital factor. You’ll receive the maximum benefit if you claim your spousal benefit at retirement age (66-67) than if you began receiving these entitlements at 62.
Survivor Benefits
Sadly, there’s no way to predict how long our cherished ones will remain with us. Fortunately, survivor benefits can offer a degree of financial stability during an otherwise challenging and emotional period. Real help.
These benefits extend beyond a surviving spouse. Children, dependent parents, and former spouses may also qualify. Broad eligibility.
As noted by the SSA, payments to surviving spouses and former partners start at 71.5% of the departed individual’s benefit. This percentage increases the later in life you apply. For instance, you could qualify for 80% of this benefit when you reach 64 and 90% at 65. When you reach retirement age, you’re eligible for up to 100% of these benefits.
Divorced Spousal Benefits
You don’t have to be currently married to receive a portion of your ex-spouse’s Social Security benefits. However, you must have been married to an eligible person for at least 10 years. As with standard spousal and survivor Social Security benefits, you must meet certain conditions.
You can qualify for Social Security benefits as a divorced spouse if:
- You were married for at least a decade to whom you’re seeking benefits from.
- You’re at least 62 years old.
- You can provide proof of a finalized divorce.
- You’re currently unmarried (unless you remarried after 60).
- You don’t qualify for a larger Social Security benefit of your own.
What You’ll Need To Qualify for Spousal Social Security Entitlements
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We’ve mentioned the importance of presenting a marriage certificate or a certified copy to the SSA. However, this process isn’t quite as simple as uploading or mailing your marriage-related document.
First, decide the most convenient way to submit your information to the Social Security Administration. You can visit the nearest Social Security office to complete and submit these forms in person. Another option is calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. Need another option? You can also complete Form SSA-2 online.
Besides your marriage certificate, you may also need to provide:
- Your birth certificate (or a certified copy)
- Your most recent tax return
- A divorce decree (if apply as a qualified ex-spouse)
Additional information required can include:
- Your name
- Your Social Security number
- Where you were born
- Your gender
- Your citizenship status
The cornerstone of any marriage is two people caring for each other. Social security benefits let someone provide care in the form of financial safety nets for many married couples, especially when someone isn’t working or is now a widow. Presenting the original or a certified marriage certificate copy helps ensure you’re eligible to receive this sometimes vital income source.
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