Couples who choose to enter a civil union enjoy the same legal protections as those who choose to marry under state law. Because civil unions are not recognized by all states, not all couples who enter into one are entitled to federal benefits, protections, or responsibilities.
Only some civil unions are recognized by the Social Security Administration when determining eligibility for Social Security benefits when it comes to marriage between same-s*x couples in all states.
People in civil unions in some states have been granted the same legal rights as those in legally recognized marriage. New Jersey is one of the states that make up this group.
After the Supreme Court’s decision in 2015 legalizing same-s*x marriage in all states, other states converted all civil unions into marriages. Connecticut and New Hampshire are among the states on this list.
Also Read: The Social Security Payment Schedule for 2022: What Dates Should You Pay Attention To?
Does Social Security need to be informed that you are in a civil partnership? Is it possible for one spouse or the other’s benefits to be at risk?
Social Security must be contacted in order to determine whether or not your civil union is recognized for the purpose of claiming benefits on your spouse’s record or the other way around.
Since the Supreme Court’s decision in 2015, it may be easier to convert the union into a marriage for the purposes of obtaining social security.
As your marital status may influence your eligibility for Social Security benefits, the SSA recommends that anyone already receiving these benefits notify them immediately if they get married, enter a non-marital legal relationship, or divorce.
Social Security can be reached at 1-800-772-1213, or you can find your local Social Security office here if you have any questions about how a civil union affects your benefits.