In many cases, a retiree's spouse can qualify for Social Security benefits simply because their partner does. Spouses can qualify for up to one-half of a retiree's benefits at their full retirement age,

You can claim your retirement benefit at any time from the age of 62 up until age 70. Most experts recommend delaying your benefit to increase your benefit amount, but in some cases, it could

Divorced spouses can also sometimes qualify for this type of benefit, as long as you're not currently married and your previous marriage lasted for at least 10 years. As with spousal benefits, the most you can receive is 50% of your spouse's full benefit.

Fast moving economic changes have already impacted just how effective the 2025 COLA rate of 2.5% is, especially when it comes to buying power.