Are You Eligible for Spousal Benefits if You've Never Worked?

The general principle is this as you have said correctly Brian if you take your benefit before your full retirement age it's going to get reduced. Once you reach age 70 that 8% automatic increase which is known as a delayed credit is not applicable. The wife who's never worked maybe a stay at home mother her husband has worked. He qualifies for his own benefit a spouse can then qualify for a spousal benefit even though she's never worked. She can get at maximum if she claims that benefit at full retirement age 50% of her husband's benefit and his full retirement age.