The start of a new year usually means changes to Social Security, and this year is no different. The changes to Social Security retirement benefits and changes that affect workers still paying into the program often get the most attention, but spousal benefits see changes too.
If you're already claiming spousal Social Security benefits or you expect to apply soon, here are two of the most significant changes to expect in 2025.
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1. 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA)
All Social Security benefits received a 2.5% increase in January, thanks to the latest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation, though there's good evidence that buying power has declined in spite of COLAs.
The monthly spousal benefit as of November 2024 was about $909 per month. If we add 2.5% to that, we get about $932 per month. However, average benefits creep up over time, so the real average in January 2025 could be a bit higher. Those who received more than $909 per month in November 2024 can also expect a larger increase, since COLAs are based on a percentage of your checks rather than a flat dollar amount.
You may have already received your first check with the new benefit amount. However, those born between the 21st and 31st of a month will not get their first 2025 check until Jan. 22.
2. Higher full retirement age (FRA) for those born in 1959
The Social Security Administration assigns everyone -- retired workers and spouses alike -- a full retirement age (FRA) based on their birth year. For many years, FRA was 66. But it's gradually been creeping up due to legislative changes put in place decades ago.
Beginning late last year and continuing into 2025, those born in 1958 have reached their FRA of 66 and 8 months. A few of those born early in 1959 will reach their FRA of 66 and 10 months later this year.
The two-month increase might seem small, but it has a significant consequence for seniors. When you claim benefits before your FRA, you shrink your checks. Retirement benefits decrease by 5/9 of 1% per month for up to 36 months of early claiming, and then by 5/12 of 1% per month thereafter. Spousal benefits have even steeper early claiming penalties at 25/36 of 1% per month for up to 36 months, and then 5/12 of 1% per month thereafter.
If you applied for Social Security before your FRA and you're currently receiving benefits, the government has already applied the appropriate penalty. If you haven't applied yet and hope to maximize your spousal benefit, consider waiting until you reach your FRA.
Don't try to delay beyond this, though. Social Security retirement benefits offer delayed retirement credits that can boost seniors' checks if they apply for Social Security after their FRA, up to age 70. But spousal benefits don't allow this. Your maximum spousal benefit is what you qualify for at your FRA.
If you have any questions about how your spousal benefits could change this year, it's best to contact the Social Security Administration for clarification. You can do this online, over the phone, or by making an appointment with your local Social Security office.
