What benefits are available for the spouses of SSI recipients?

Benefits for spouses of SSI recipients are as much as half of the recipient’s primary insurance amount, depending on the age he retires. The primary insurance amount is the amount of benefits a person would receive if he waits until his normal retirement age.

If the spouse receives benefits before the normal retirement age, the benefit to the spouse is reduced. However, if a spouse is caring for a qualifying child, the spousal benefit is not reduced. Additionally, the spouse must be at least age 62. If a spouse can claim retirement benefits based on their own income and it is higher than the spouses benefit, the regular retirement benefit is paid. Otherwise, the spousal benefit is paid.