5 Hidden Social Security Benefits You Should Claim Right Now

Americans are dangerously in the dark about Social Security benefits.

Research from Nationwide Financial revealed 30% of adults are unaware that spousal benefits exist, and 50% of Americans incorrectly believe you aren't allowed to claim Social Security on an ex-spouse's work record, even though sometimes you're eligible.

These knowledge gaps come at a huge financial cost for Americans who are leaving benefits on the table. If you're missing out, you're passing up your chance at a stress-free retirement simply because the Social Security system is so hard to figure out.

Don't let that happen. Read on to learn about five Social Security benefits you should claim now.

Social Security spousal benefits

Social Security spousal benefits equal up to 50% of your spouse's primary insurance amount. If the primary earner has claimed their retirement benefits and you are at least 62 or have a qualifying child in your care, you're eligible to claim these benefits.

Typically, you must have been married for at least a year or have your spouse's child to qualify. And, unless you have a qualifying child, you reduce your spousal benefit if you claim before your full retirement age.

But if you are married to someone who earns more than you, looking into spousal benefits is definitely worth doing. Apply online, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or visit your local Social Security office.

Divorced spouses' benefits

Despite common misconceptions to the contrary, divorce doesn't mean you lose the ability to claim spousal benefits. If you were married for at least 10 years before divorcing, and you haven't remarried, you are still allowed to claim these benefits on your spouse's work record.

The benefit still equals up to 50% of your ex's primary insurance amount, but as long as you have been divorced for at least two years, you don't have to wait for your ex to claim retirement benefits to start your spousal benefits.

Your claim on your ex's benefits doesn't affect their own retirement checks, and your ex won't be able to stop you from claiming these benefits even if they want to. Apply online, call Social Security, or visit your local Social Security office.

Social Security survivor benefits

Survivor benefits are available if your spouse died and you were married for at least nine months before the death. You're eligible for these benefits at a younger age than for retirement benefits. They're available as soon as you turn 60, or if you are caring for a minor or disabled child of the person who died.

The Inspector General found that the Social Security Administration failed to inform many widows of their right to claim survivor benefits while postponing their own retirement benefits claim, which cost widows and widowers over $113.8 million.

You don't want this to happen to you, so make sure you understand all the benefits you are eligible for. You'll need to apply for survivor benefits at your local Social Security office, so call 800-772-1213 to set up an appointment.

Benefits for public service employees and their families

The Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset previously prevented many public service workers and their spouses from getting Social Security benefits.

These laws reduced or eliminated Social Security benefits for workers who got a pension from a job where they didn't pay Social Security taxes, even if they qualified for Social Security benefits from other work.

The laws were repealed by the Social Security Fairness Act, which was signed into law on January 5, 2025. Most people were automatically sent extra payments for missed benefits, but anyone who never applied for Social Security because they thought they'd be disqualified, who is now eligible for benefits, must submit an application to the SSA online, in person, or via phone.

Disability benefits before full retirement age

Finally, if you become disabled before your full retirement age, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits provide income for those with qualifying conditions.

You must meet the SSA's requirements for disability, including having a condition that has lasted, or is going to last at least 12 months, or that is likely to be terminal. You are allowed to apply online, but you need detailed medical documentation to maximize your chances of approval.

Bottom line

When you make your retirement plan, make sure you research all of the different Social Security benefits available to you. Widows and widowers have already lost millions, and the research has made clear that many people don't understand the benefits available to them.

These benefits provide much-needed income in your senior years, allowing you to retire with more financial security and truly enjoy your life after leaving the workforce behind for good.

The Social Security Administration has benefits guides to review, and a financial advisor may also be a good resource to turn to to truly understand all the benefits you may be able to claim. Use these resources to avoid missing out.