It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Social Security has been one of the country's most crucial social programs since it was implemented decades ago. In July, close to 54 million people received Social Security retirement benefits, with many of them relying on it for their livelihood.

Social Security benefits are typically based on your earnings history throughout your career. Simply put, the more you pay in Social Security taxes, the more you can expect to receive in Social Security retirement benefits (although there is a cap). The problem with that, however, is that not everyone works or has a decent earnings history. Luckily, Social Security offers spousal benefits to help with this.

Continue reading

Source Fool.com