The start of a new year usually means changes to Social Security, and this year is no different. The changes to Social Security retirement benefits and changes that affect workers still paying into the program often get the most attention,

Social Security is best known for providing retirement income to tens of millions of retired workers, but there's a lot more to the program. One of the most important, but often misunderstood, components is Social Security spousal benefits.

To qualify for spousal benefits, you must be 62 or caring for a child under 16 or with disabilities. Additionally, the spousal benefit will be reduced if you claim before reaching full retirement age, which is 67 for those born in 1960 or later.

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The bad news is that you'll lose spousal benefits once you're no longer married, but you could be entitled to a different type of benefit. You'll only qualify for spousal benefits if you're currently married to someone who is entitled to either retirement or disability benefits.