Spousal Benefits

• A spousal benefit is a benefit your spouse receives on your Social Security record, not her own. If your spouse collects her own retirement, disability or other benefit, it's not considered a spousal benefit. As long as your spouse doesn't qualify for her own benefit (or if her benefit amount wouldn't be as high as one on your record), she can collect spousal benefits. Qualified spouses, ex-spouses and children can receive a monthly benefit that equals up to 50 percent the amount of the disabled worker's benefit. Note that this doesn't mean the disabled worker's benefit will be split up---each qualifying family member receives his own benefit, independent of the disabled worker.
  
  

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

• For your spouse to qualify for a benefit on your disability record, she must either be the caregiver of a dependent child under 16, the caregiver of a disabled child under 22, or she must be of age 62 or older. Note that the SSA will make sure your spouse gets her maximum benefit possible---meaning that if she qualifies for a benefit on her record, she will receive that instead of a spousal disability benefit on your record.
  
  

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• SSI is another benefits program designed to aid disabled workers and their families. While there isn't a separate spousal benefit in the SSI program, anyone who qualifies may receive both SSDI and SSI at the same time. To qualify, you must have a low income and few resources (assets like savings, stocks and bonds), and be blind or disabled. Also, non-disabled people over age 65 may also qualify for SSI.
  
  

When To Apply

• If you're already receiving Social Security Disability and your spouse doesn't qualify for any benefits on her own, it's time for her to apply for spousal benefits. If you're not sure whether your spouse qualifies for her own higher-paying benefits, Social Security will help you figure it out. Simply set up an appointment at your local Social Security office (see Resources) or call the SSA at (800) 772-1213. Your spouse will need his personal information, Social Security number and work information.