Understanding the Maximum Spousal Benefit in Social Security for 2024
How does the government calculate spousal Social Security benefits?
The maximum spousal Social Security benefit is half of the higher-earning spouse's primary insurance amount (PIA).
The maximum PIA in 2024 is $3,822 per month, making the maximum spousal benefit $1,911 per month.
Most retired workers won't ever earn anything close to the maximum PIA, which means most spouses won't get the maximum spousal benefit either.
What will your spousal Social Security benefit be?
Knowing the maximum spousal Social Security benefit could be a reality check for some workers who expected more from the program, but it's not all that useful in reality.
Use this information as a jumping-off point when determining how much your Social Security benefits will be worth and when you and your spouse should apply.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.