Spousal & Divorced Benefits
Understanding Spousal Benefits with Social Security Disability Insurance
Verified against SSA POMS as of September 21, 2026
The short answer
A spouse may qualify for benefits on the record of a worker receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if the spouse is age 62 or older or has an eligible child of the worker in their care. The maximum spouse benefit is generally 50% of the disabled worker's primary insurance amount (PIA), subject to applicable reductions and the family maximum
Eligibility for Spousal Benefits
A spouse may qualify for benefits on the record of a worker entitled to SSDI if the spouse:
- * is age 62 or older; or
- * has an entitled child of the worker in their care who is under age 16 or disabled.
The spouse must also meet the applicable marriage requirements. A one-year duration-of-marriage requirement generally applies, although SSA provides exceptions.
RS 00202.001 View source ›Spousal Benefit Amount
The maximum spouse benefit is generally 50% of the disabled worker's PIA. If the spouse claims before FRA based on age, the spouse benefit is reduced for early filing.
A spouse who qualifies because they have an eligible child of the worker in their care can receive an unreduced spouse benefit, regardless of age.
RS 00202.020 View source ›RS 00615.201Divorced Spouse Benefits
A divorced spouse may qualify on the record of a worker receiving SSDI if the marriage lasted at least 10 years, the divorced spouse is age 62 or older and unmarried, and the other entitlement requirements are met.
RS 00202.005Frequently asked
Can I collect spousal benefits if my spouse is on SSDI?
Yes, you can collect spousal benefits if your spouse is entitled to SSDI, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for spousal benefits.
How much is a spousal benefit under SSDI?
The spousal benefit is typically one-half the primary insurance amount (PIA) of the SSDI recipient.
Are spousal benefits reduced if I claim them before full retirement age?
Yes, spousal benefits may be reduced if you claim them before reaching full retirement age.
Can a spouse receive benefits on a disabled worker's record before age 62?
A spouse must generally be at least age 62 to receive spouse benefits, even though the worker may begin receiving SSDI at a younger age. The exception is a spouse who has an entitled child of the disabled worker in their care who is under age 16 or disabled. In that case, the spouse may qualify regardless of age.
Can I receive both my SSDI and spousal benefits?
Yes. If you qualify for a spousal benefit in addition to your own SSDI, you will receive your SSDI benefit plus any additional spousal amount for which you are eligible.