Marriage can bring about significant changes, and when it comes to Social Security benefits, these changes can vary depending on the type of benefits you receive. While your retirement or disability benefits are generally unaffected by marriage, other programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), survivor benefits, ex-spouse benefits, and child benefits may be impacted.
What Happens to Your Social Security Benefits When You Get Married?
Marriage can lead to adjustments in some Social Security benefits. For example, some benefits may decrease, change, or be suspended depending on your circumstances. This includes the following:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Your eligibility and payment amounts could change if your spouse’s income and assets are taken into account.
Survivor Benefits: If you are receiving survivor benefits, getting remarried before the age of 60 could affect your ability to continue receiving those benefits.
Ex-Spouse Benefits: If you are receiving benefits based on an ex-spouse’s work record, getting remarried might end those benefits, but it’s important to check if certain exceptions apply.
Child Benefits: Marriage may also impact child benefits, especially if a new spouse’s income is factored in.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recommends that you notify them of your marriage to avoid potential issues such as improper payments. Additionally, they can guide you on how the marriage will affect your benefits based on your specific situation.
How to Notify Social Security of Your Marriage
It’s essential to inform the SSA about your marriage as soon as possible to prevent errors in your payments. You can do so by:
Calling the SSA: Dial 1-800-772-1213 for assistance.
Visiting Your Local Social Security Office: Alternatively, you can visit your local office for in-person guidance.
How to Update Your Name After Marriage
If you change your last name after marriage, you will need to update your Social Security records. The SSA allows you to complete this process online in many cases. Visit the name change page on the official Social Security website to start the process and ensure your records are updated correctly.
Getting married can impact your Social Security benefits in several ways, so it’s important to inform the SSA about your marriage as soon as possible. Whether you need to update your name or understand how marriage affects your benefits, notifying the SSA will help ensure your payments are correct and you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
