If you receive Social Security retirement benefits, certain family members may also be eligible to receive benefits based on your record. This includes ex-spouses, spouses, and children. These family members can receive a monthly payment of up to half of your retirement benefit amount without reducing your own benefit.
Your spouse may be eligible for benefits even if they have never worked under Social Security. They can qualify if they are at least 62 years old and you are receiving retirement or disability benefits.
Children can also qualify for benefits on your record. They must be unmarried and meet certain age and dependency criteria. Benefits generally stop when children reach age 18, but they may continue if the child is a full-time student until they graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first.
If you are divorced, your ex-spouse can receive benefits based on your record if your marriage lasted for at least 10 years, your ex-spouse is unmarried, they are at least 62 years old, and their own benefit is less than what they would receive based on your work. If you remarry, your ex-spouse will still be eligible for benefits if they meet the requirements.
You can apply for these benefits online using the Social Security Retirement/Medicare Benefit Application. Consult the Social Security Administration website for more detailed and personalized information regarding benefits for family members.
Last Reviewed: July 6, 2023