Contents
Common Mistake #2: Misunderstanding Deemed Filing Rules
Deemed filing is a rule that catches many people off guard. If you apply for any Social Security retirement benefit before reaching your full retirement age, you’re automatically considered to be applying for both your own and your spousal benefits. This might sound convenient, but it can lead to a lower combined benefit if your own benefit is smaller than what you’d receive as a spouse. You won’t get to choose the higher benefit—you’ll be stuck with the default option.
The rules used to be more flexible for people born before 1954, but they’ve since changed and now apply across the board. Today, anyone filing before FRA has no way to separate the two benefits, which limits your ability to maximize your income. This makes it critical to wait until FRA if you want the freedom to choose the best payout. A misstep here could reduce your benefit amount for the rest of your life.
Common Mistake #3: Ignoring Divorced Spouse Benefits
Many divorced individuals miss out on thousands of dollars in spousal benefits simply because they don’t know they qualify. If your marriage lasted at least 10 years and you’ve been divorced for two years or more, you can claim benefits on your ex-spouse’s record as long as you’re currently unmarried. What’s more, your ex does not need to have started collecting their benefits—only to be eligible and at least 62 years old. This rule allows many retirees to access financial support they assumed was out of reach.
Another common misconception is that claiming benefits on an ex-spouse’s record will affect their current benefits or relationships. That’s not the case—your claim is entirely separate and doesn’t impact your ex in any way. Additionally, if you qualify for benefits based on multiple ex-spouses, you can only claim one at a time, but you can choose whichever yields the higher amount. For many retirees, especially women who took time off work, this benefit can be a financial lifeline that dramatically changes their retirement outlook.
Common Mistake #4: Not Factoring In Work and the Earnings Test
If you’re planning to claim spousal benefits before your full retirement age while still working, you need to understand how the earnings test can reduce your payments. The Social Security Administration sets an annual income limit for early claimers, and if you earn above that threshold, your benefits may be temporarily withheld. In 2025, the earnings limit is $22,320, and for every $2 you earn over the limit, $1 in benefits is withheld. Many people are shocked when their checks are smaller—or stop entirely—because they didn’t factor this in.
Although the withheld money is eventually recalculated when you reach full retirement age, it doesn’t always get paid back in full. The recalculation adjusts your monthly benefit moving forward, but it’s not a lump-sum reimbursement. If you plan to continue working even part-time, it’s important to estimate your yearly income before deciding to file. By understanding how the earnings test works, you can better time your claim and avoid financial surprises that throw off your budget.
New Changes That Could Affect Your Benefits in 2025 and Beyond
Recent legislative changes are reshaping how some Americans receive their spousal benefits, particularly those affected by government pensions. The repeal of the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) through the Social Security Fairness Act means that retirees with certain public-sector pensions may now receive their full spousal benefits. Previously, these provisions significantly reduced or eliminated benefits for workers like teachers, firefighters, and police officers. Now, those reductions have been lifted, offering many a chance at higher payments they were once denied.
This change opens the door for thousands of retirees to reevaluate their benefit strategies. If you or your spouse had a government job not covered by Social Security, your benefit outlook may now be much more favorable. The SSA recommends reviewing your past letters or recalculating your projected benefits in light of the updated laws. Staying informed about legislative shifts ensures you’re not basing life-changing decisions on outdated rules.
Don’t Let Missteps Drain Your Retirement Income
Claiming the right spousal benefit can make a major difference in your retirement income, yet too many people miss out due to avoidable mistakes. Whether you’re currently married or divorced, understanding your options and timing your claim carefully can lead to higher monthly payments for life. With recent rule changes and complex eligibility requirements, it’s worth taking the time to reevaluate your strategy. Don’t rely on guesswork—do the research, use official tools, and consider speaking with a Social Security expert to make sure you’re not leaving money behind.
For More Information About Social Security Benefits: The Complete Guide to Social Security Benefits in 2025
