To calculate the Second Spouse Policy in the United States, a surviving spouse may claim Social Security benefits based on either their own work record or their deceased spouse’s record, whichever yields a higher monthly payment. The surviving spouse must be at least 60 years old (or 50 with a child under 16), have been married for at least nine months before the spouse’s death, and not have remarried before age 60 (unless the new marriage ended due to death or divorce). The benefit amount is determined by comparing the primary insurance amount (PIA) from both records. If the deceased spouse’s PIA is higher, the surviving spouse receives 100% of that amount. If their own PIA exceeds the deceased spouse’s, they receive their own benefit. For example, a deceased spouse with a PIA of $2,000 and a surviving spouse with a PIA of $1,800 would receive $2,000 monthly. If the surviving spouse claims before full retirement age (67 for those born in 1967), benefits are reduced by 30–8.5% per year, depending on the age.

The policy exists to ensure financial stability for surviving spouses, particularly widows, who often face income loss after a spouse’s death. Data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) shows that in 2023, approximately 5.6 million spouses received monthly benefits totaling $45.3 billion, averaging $1,015 per recipient. Without this policy, SSA estimates that 40% of spouses would receive less than their own PIA, exacerbating poverty. For instance, in 2022, 13% of widows lived below the poverty line, compared to 26% if spousal benefits were unavailable. The policy also incentivizes longer marriages and reduces economic vulnerability, as seen in SSA’s analysis: couples married for 40+ years are 60% more likely to claim spousal benefits. Additionally, benefits are adjusted for inflation, preserving purchasing power. The structure balances equity and fiscal responsibility, ensuring spouses are not disadvantaged by their marital status while maintaining SSA’s solvency. This approach aligns with broader goals of reducing elderly poverty and promoting intergenerational economic security.