A worker, for example, might get coverage through an employer, while the nonworking spouse would enroll in a new public program, to be known as Part C of Medicare.

One obstacle encountered when trying to put property in the name of a nonworking spouse is getting a lender to lend money to someone with little or no ability to repay it.

Currently, a nonworking spouse is limited to a $250 annual deposit.

The flat statement that "only a nonworking spouse in a 'lengthy marriage' is eligible for alimony" is misleading.

Retirement Plan A couple with a nonworking spouse can contribute up to $4,000 in an individual retirement account starting this year, up from $2,250.

A The full benefit of a nonworking spouse is half of the working spouse's benefit.

A nonworking spouse is now limited to a $250 annual deposit.

It also raised the maximum annual contribution to $2,000 and allowed participants to contribute $250 on behalf of a nonworking spouse.

But heterosexual married couples can contribute up to $5,000 annually to a spousal I.R.A. for a nonworking spouse.

JoAnn Falletta, married several years, points out that male conductors often have nonworking spouses who travel with them, make arrangements and look after them.