Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Due to a variety of factors, women experience Social Security benefits differently from men, and are more likely to have lower benefits while living longer. As a result, it’s important for women to plan ahead and consider how to coordinate other retirement income sources, such as 401(k)s, IRAs and other accounts, with their Social Security benefits. 

Women with partners might have other considerations, such as how to manage their benefits and spousal benefits, determining when to start taking Social Security benefits and how to handle survivor benefits. 

• Understand that your eligibility for Social Security depends on how long you’ve worked and whether you’ve accumulated enough credits. Many women earn credits slowly over time due to time out of the workforce or part-time work.

• Not all teachers and public sector workers have access to the Social Security system and may need to make alternative plans for retirement income.

• You can keep receiving Social Security benefits if you go back to work during retirement, but your monthly payment might be reduced.

• You can claim Social Security retirement benefits based on your spouse’s work history, and it’s even possible for divorced women to claim spousal benefits based on an ex’s work history.

• Plan for a portion of your Social Security benefits to be taxed. Not all states tax Social Security benefits, but the federal government does once you reach a certain income threshold.

Interested in learning more about women and retirement?  Consider reading “Early Retirement Healthcare for Women” or “Navigating Retirement as a Woman.”