How Social Security Spousal Benefits Work for Retired Couples

https://socialsecurityspousaldaily.capitaljays.com/posts/how-social-security-spousal-benefits-work-for-retired-couples

When a retired couple files for Social Security, the spouse can claim a benefit based on their own work record or up to 50% of the higher-earning spouse's full retirement benefit, whichever is greater. This spousal benefit doesn't reduce the higher earner's payout, but it's only available if the lower-earning spouse is at least 62 and the higher earner has already filed. Timing matters, as claiming early permanently reduces the spousal amount.