The two non-negotiable factors to qualify for Social Security spousal benefits are: the qualifying spouse currently receiving retirement benefits. From there, one of the following must also apply: You're at least 62 years old. You're caring for a child under age 16. You're caring for a child with a disability that began before age 22.

One of the most important parts of the program, especially for married couples, is Social Security spousal benefits.

If you can keep working while looking after your health, do it. You get 100% of your Social Security benefit at full retirement age, which is 67 for anyone born in 1960 or after, and you receive a lesser amount if you claim at any time from the age of 62 until full retirement age. If you wait until age 70, you receive roughly 8% more per year .