What percentage of the worker's PIA is generally available to a spouse upon the worker's retirement?

When a worker retires and begins receiving Social Security benefits, their spouse may be eligible to receive spousal benefits. These spousal benefits typically amount to 50% of the worker's Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), which is the benefit amount that the worker would receive at full retirement age. This provision is designed to provide financial support for spouses who may have lower lifetime earnings or who may have taken time off from the workforce for caregiving responsibilities.

The 50% spousal benefit encourages retirement at an appropriate age and ensures that spouses can maintain a level of income reflective of their partner's earnings history while also promoting the social safety net aspect of the Social Security system. Understanding this benefit is crucial for those planning for retirement, as it highlights the importance of both partners’ work records in determining total household benefits.