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Most people think of Social Security as a single “retirement check” you get once you stop working. But the system is more flexible—and generous—than many realize. With the right timing and strategy, you might qualify for benefits you never knew existed.

For informational purposes only, not financial advice. Results may vary. Please read our full disclaimer at the end of this article.

Here are some of the most underused Social Security benefits retirees are quietly tapping into, along with real examples and official sources:

1. Spousal Benefits (Including from Ex-Spouses)

If you’re married (or were married), you may be eligible to receive up to 50% of your spouse’s full benefit—even if you never earned that much on your own. That’s especially useful for someone who took time off work or earned less over their career.

Even after a divorce, as long as you were married for at least 10 years, you can still collect spousal benefits on your ex’s record—without affecting their benefit. (MoneyTalksNews, “8 Social Security Benefits You May Be Overlooking”)

2. Survivor / Widow(er) Benefits

If your spouse passes away, you may be entitled to survivor benefits based on their record. In many cases, you can receive up to 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefit, depending on age and eligibility. (MoneyTalksNews)

Divorced surviving spouses may also qualify, as long as the marriage lasted at least 10 years and they remain unmarried. (MoneyTalksNews)

3. Working While on Social Security Can Boost Your Checks

Here’s a lesser-known trick: even after you’ve claimed Social Security, going back to work (or continuing part-time work) can raise your future benefit if it replaces a low-income year in your 35-year earnings average. (Moneywise, article “There’s 1 Simple Social Security Secret American Retirees May Not Realize”)

For example, if you never filled all 35 earning years (zeros count against you), a year of solid earnings later can replace a zero and boost your benefit.

But beware: if you’re under your full retirement age and you exceed the earnings limit, Social Security will withhold $1 for every $2 you earn above the limit. In 2025, that limit is $23,400. (Motley Fool, “Working While on Social Security? There’s a Big Hidden Benefit”)

4. The 2025 Social Security Fairness Act — Good News for Public Sector Workers

In January 2025, Congress passed the Social Security Fairness Act, which eliminated two long-criticized formulas: the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). (Investopedia, “Social Security Fairness Act Signed by Biden”)

These provisions used to reduce Social Security benefits for workers who also received a pension from jobs that didn’t pay Social Security (like some teachers, state/local government employees). With them gone, many retirees will now receive higher benefits they were once denied or reduced. (Investopedia)

5. Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) & Benefit Adjustments

Each year, Social Security adjusts benefits upward for inflation via a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). For example, in recent years the COLA has given retirees a 2–3% bump automatically. (SSA “Explore the Benefits You May Be Due”)

Additionally, life changes—like marriage, divorce, or a spouse’s death—can make you eligible for higher benefit levels if you didn’t apply for those adjustments earlier. (SSA “Explore the Benefits You May Be Due”)

How to Check Which Hidden Benefits You Qualify For

Use the SSA’s Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST) to see possible benefits you might qualify for. (SSA “Explore the Benefits You May Be Due”) Contact your local Social Security office and ask them to review your eligibility as your circumstances change (marriage, divorce, death in family, returning to work). Carefully compare your spouse’s record, your own work record, and your family history—these can open doors to unclaimed benefits.

Final Word

If you’re a retiree or heading into retirement, ignoring these hidden Social Security options could mean leaving thousands of dollars on the table. Spousal benefits, survivor benefits, working with strategy, and the new Fairness Act are all tools you can use legally and wisely.

Take action: plug your numbers into Social Security’s tools, talk to an advisor or SSA rep, and make sure you’re getting everything you deserve.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult with a licensed financial advisor for advice tailored to your financial situation. Results may vary, and ThriveLifeHQ does not guarantee any specific financial outcomes.