Learn about the filing rules for married couples regarding retirement and spouses benefits that will help you decide when to claim your benefits. I apply for all insurance benefits for which I am eligible under Title II (Federal Old-Age,.Spousal support (also known as alimony) is a court ordered payment from one spouse or domestic partner to help cover the other's monthly expenses. The spousal benefit can be as much as half of the worker's primary insurance amount, depending on the spouse's age at retirement. How do I apply for spousal benefits? If you're looking to file for spousal benefits based upon your spouse's benefits history, you'll need to file Form SSA-2. Spousal support payments are often taken directly from your paycheck (called an earnings assignment or income withholding). Your full spouse's benefit could be up to onehalf the amount your spouse is eligible to receive at their full retirement age. Being divorced doesn't necessarily mean you lose spousal support from Social Security. Your spouse must also have begun receiving Social Security benefits unless you are widowed.