Social Security Secrets: How to Get a Bigger Monthly Check for Life.
Let’s face it—Social Security is more complicated than assembling IKEA furniture without the instructions. But if you know the right secrets, you can unlock a bigger monthly check for life—no Allen wrench required.
And for teachers in 13 states, the Social Security Fairness Act has introduced brand-new options that most don’t even know exist. That’s why I want to share some Social Security secrets from my one-on-one Social Security Optimization Workshops to help you get the most out of your benefits.
Secret #1: Spousal Benefits—Because Marriage Should Have Some Perks
Did you know that if you’re married (or were married for at least 10 years before a divorce), you may be eligible for up to 50% of your spouse’s Social Security benefit? That’s right—you might get paid just for having a spouse. But the rules are tricky, so let’s break them down.
Case Study: Jane (Married, No Social Security Earnings)
The Problem: Jane, a retired Connecticut teacher, never paid into Social Security and was originally shut out of spousal benefits because of the Government Pension Offset (GPO).
The Fix: Thanks to the Social Security Fairness Act (passed in January 2025), Jane can now collect spousal benefits.
The Outcome:
If Jane waits until 67, she’ll get $1,200/month for life—half of her husband’s FRA (Full Retirement Age) benefit of $2,400.
If she takes it earlier, her benefit is reduced.
But she must wait until her husband starts collecting.
What Happened Next:
Jane was thrilled to learn she had an extra $1,200 a month coming her way. Like Prince, she went out and bought the car of her dreams—a little red Corvette.
Case Study: Florence (Divorced, Little Social Security Earnings)
The Problem: Florence, a divorced Connecticut teacher, had a small Social Security check of $500/month from an old job and didn’t know she could claim spousal benefits from her ex-husband.
The Fix: Since she was married for over 10 years and never remarried, she’s entitled to 50% of her ex’s benefit. Even better? She doesn’t have to wait for him to start claiming.
The Outcome:
Instead of her $500 check, she now gets $1,200/month—half of his FRA benefit of $2,400.
What Happened Next:
Florence was ecstatic about the extra cash—until she realized it didn’t cost her lying, cheating ex-husband and his gooma (new wife) a dime.
Case Study: Sally (Married, Little Social Security Earnings)
The Problem: Sally had some Social Security earnings ($500/month) but wasn’t sure how to maximize her benefits.
The Fix: She can collect her own benefit at 67, then switch to spousal benefits at 70 when her husband claims his Social Security.
The Outcome:
At 67: She collects $500/month from her own work record.
At 70: She switches to $1,200/month in spousal benefits.
What Happened Next:
Sally and her husband decided to put her extra $700/month to good use—a long weekend in the Poconos with a heart-shaped tub.
Secret #2: Survivor Benefits—Even Your Ex Can Be Worth Something
If your spouse (or ex-spouse) passes away, you may be eligible to claim their full Social Security benefit. And unlike spousal benefits, survivor benefits can be up to 100% of their check.
Case Study: Jenny (Divorced, Survivor Benefits)
The Problem: Jenny, a divorced retiree, was collecting $1,000/month from her own earnings but didn’t realize she could claim survivor benefits from her deceased ex-husband.
The Fix: Since she was married for over 10 years and never remarried, she could switch to her ex’s full benefit.
The Outcome:
Her ex maximized his benefits, collecting $4,000/month at 70.
She immediately switched to $4,000/month, instead of her old $1,000/month.
What Happened Next:
Jenny suddenly had an extra $3,000/month, so she booked a party cruise to Mexico. Turns out, her good-for-nothing ex-husband was actually good for something after all!
Secret #3: Benefits for Dependent Minor Children—Free Money for Parents
If you’re collecting Social Security and have kids under 18, they might qualify for extra benefits.
Case Study: Bill (Retiree with Minor Children)
The Problem: Bill, a 64-year-old retiree, didn’t realize his two minor kids could get benefits too.
The Fix: His 13-year-old son and 10-year-old stepson each qualify for 50% of his FRA benefit until they turn 18.
The Outcome:
Bill gets $2,500/month in Social Security.
Each kid gets $1,500/month, meaning his household is now collecting $5,500/month total!
What Happened Next:
Bill calculated that this would add up to nearly $200,000 by the time his kids turned 18. He promptly booked a romantic getaway to Niagara Falls, leaving the kids with Grandma and Grandpa.
Final Thoughts
Social Security isn’t simple—and making the wrong choice can cost you thousands over your lifetime. But by knowing the Social Security Secrets, you can increase your benefits and make the most of what’s available to you.
NOT FINANCIAL ADVICE
The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and shall not be understood or construed as financial advice. I am not an attorney, accountant or financial advisor, nor am I holding myself out to be.
