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AARP's Social Security Q&A Tool

What benefits are available to spouses who did not work outside the home, or who did not work long enough to qualify for Social Security benefits on their own record?

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If you qualify for Social Security benefits, then your husband or wife can receive spouse's benefits based on your earnings. If you're currently married, you must file for retirement benefits before your spouse can receive these benefits. In addition, your spouse must be at least age 62 to receive spouse's benefits. However, the longer you and your spouse wait to receive benefits, the larger both of your benefits will be.

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