June is Pride Month. It’s a time to acknowledge the struggles of the + LGBTQ community, and also celebrate diversity, love, and respect. On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, holding that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry in all states. We recognize same-sex couples’ marriages in all states and some non-marital legal relationships (such as some civil unions and domestic partnerships). This recognition is important to determine entitlement to benefits. Here are five things you should know about our benefits for same-sex couples:
· Marital status is important — A member of a same-sex couple may be entitled to Social Security benefits when a working spouse retires, becomes disabled, or dies. We also consider marital status when we determine eligibility and payment amount for Supplemental Security Income.
· What type of benefits you can receive — Social Security taxes pay for three kinds of benefits: retirement, disability, and survivors. If you’re entitled to benefits, your spouse and eligible family members might receive benefits, too.
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Thank you for reading Patrick Robinson’s article on scoopnewsusa.com. For more on “Social Security’s Commitment to the LGBTQ+ Community”, please subscribe to SCOOP USA Media. Print subscriptions are $75 and online subscriptions (Print, Digital, and VIZION) are $90. (52 weeks / 1 year).
