Can't find spousal benefits application online after creating SS account - where is it?

The spousal application isn't always visible to everyone in the online portal. It depends on your specific situation. Since you mentioned not having enough work credits of your own, you'll need to apply through the regular retirement application process. When you start the application, there should be a question about whether you want to apply for benefits on someone else's record - that's where you indicate you're applying for spousal benefits. If you don't see the option to start an application at all on your mySocialSecurity homepage (usually a button that says "Apply for Benefits"), then you'll unfortunately need to call or visit your local office.

I had the same issue last month! Thought I was going crazy because everyone kept saying "just apply online" but there was no application link anywhere. Turns out my husband needed to add me as a spouse on his account first before I could apply online for spousal benefits.

I work for a senior center and help people with this all the time. Here's the actual process: 1. You need to go to SSA.gov (not directly to mySocialSecurity) 2. Click on "Retirement" under the Benefits menu 3. Then select "Apply for Retirement Benefits" 4. From there, you'll be prompted to log in with your mySocialSecurity account 5. During the application, you'll indicate you're applying for spousal benefits The "Apply for Benefits" button isn't always on your mySocialSecurity dashboard, especially if the system doesn't think you're eligible yet based on your age or other factors. Going through the main SSA.gov site often works better.

i tried applying for spousal benefits online 3 times!!!! the website kept crashing and losing all my information!!!! FINALLY just gave up and called SSA directly. took 3 WEEKS of calling everyday to get through. then they told me for MY situation i couldn't even apply online anyway and had to do a phone interview!!!! wasted all that time for nothing!!!! so frustrating how they make everything so difficult!!!!!

I had success using Claimyr when I needed to talk to someone at SSA about my spousal benefits application. After trying to call for days and never getting through, I used their service at claimyr.com and they got me connected to an agent in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU. Saved me from having to go to the office in person, which is an hour drive for me. The agent I spoke with confirmed that certain types of spousal applications can't be completed online depending on your specific circumstances.

my neighbor had same problem tried for HOURS looking for the right button on website. nothing was there!!!

Everyone here is giving different advice because the SSA system works differently based on your individual circumstances. The primary factors that determine whether you can apply for spousal benefits online are: 1. Your age (if you're under FRA and applying for reduced benefits) 2. Whether you've ever filed for benefits on your own record before 3. Whether your spouse claimed benefits on their own record or a different record 4. If you have non-covered pension income (WEP/GPO situations) If ANY of these apply to your situation, you likely won't see the online application option. The safest approach is to call the national number and ask specifically about your situation. Yes, the wait is frustrating, but speaking with an agent is the only way to know for sure what application method is available to you.

Did you check both the "Benefits" and "Plan" sections on your dashboard? Sometimes the application link is under "Plan" which is confusing.

After reading through this thread, it sounds like you'll need to call. Since you're under FRA and applying for reduced spousal benefits, that's likely why you don't have the online option. When you do call, make sure you have: your spouse's SSN, your marriage certificate (or at least the date), and information about any previous marriages for either of you. This will speed up the application process once you get through.