Social Security provides a vital financial backstop for American retirees. Many married couples are fortunate enough to get a pair of Social Security checks from the federal government, either because both spouses worked or because of the spousal and survivor benefit provisions of the Social Security program.

Unfortunately, Social Security is complicated enough that you can end up making decisions that, in some cases, will reduce what your spouse receives. Here are three things to watch out for, in particular.

If you qualify for retirement benefits, Social Security allows your spouse to claim spousal benefits, regardless of whether your spouse has worked. Generally, your spouse's spousal benefit will be equal to one-half of your primary insurance amount. This corresponds to what you would receive if you claimed your retirement benefits at full retirement age.

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Source Fool.com