Social Security Q&A: Does Marriage Affect SSI Benefits?
Question: I am receiving Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits. I just got married, and I am wondering if my benefits, and my new spouse’s benefits, will stay the same.
Answer: If you marry, your spouse’s income and resources may change your SSI benefit. It is your responsibility to report your status change to Social Security as soon as possible. If you and your spouse both get SSI, your benefit amount will change from an individual rate to a couple’s rate.
If you are receiving Social Security benefits as a widow, divorced widow, widower or divorced widower, other factors to keep in mind are:
∎ You cannot get benefits if you remarry before age 60; and
∎ You cannot get benefits if you’re disabled and remarry before age 50.
∎ Generally, your benefits end if you were receiving divorced spouse’s benefits and you remarry. You can read more about SSI and Social Security benefits at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.
This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213 or visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov.
