Ask Larry

Can A Divorced Spouse Receive The Same Amount That Their Deceased Spouse Was Paid?

If a divorced wife is collecting on a ex husband that is deceased can she receive the same as him? I was told I would be getting 100%. He retired just before he was 70. I know he was getting more than 100%. I think 8% for each year after he was 66. I retired at 66 and was collecting mine until he passed away because his was more. i was married 20 years. Thanks

Hi,

Yes, a divorced spouse who qualifies for survivor benefits on the record their ex-spouse can be paid up to the higher of their own benefit rate or their ex-spouse's full benefit rate. And, if the deceased ex earned delayed retirement credits (DRC) by waiting past full retirement age (FRA) to start drawing their benefits, the divorced spouse's survivor benefit rate would include credit for those DRCs. Note, however, that a divorced spouse's survivor rate would be reduced for age if they start drawing the survivor benefit prior to their FRA.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jul 31 2020 - 7:59am
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