The spousal benefit is a big part of the Social Security program. It enables the partner of a retiree claiming Social Security benefits to also receive Social Security even if they haven't worked and would not otherwise qualify for the program.

A spouse can claim a Social Security benefit that could be worth as much as half of their partner's primary insurance amount, which is the benefit a retiree would receive if they start collecting Social Security at their full retirement age. In certain scenarios, it can be even more than half.

And the spousal benefit does not reduce or come out of their partner's benefit, so it's really a win-win for the couple. Here are five ways for people to qualify for the spousal benefit.

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Source Fool.com