Ask Larry

Can I Collect Benefits From My Ex-Husband When He Retires?

I am on ss disability and collect my late husbands benefits. Can I also collect benefits from my ex husband of 17 years when he retires?

Hi,

If you are at least age 62 you may qualify for divorced spousal benefits, but only if 50% of your ex's full retirement age benefit rate (PIA) is higher than your current benefit amount. Your ex wouldn't necessarily need to be retired for you to potentially qualify for benefits on his record, but he would need to be at least age 62 or receiving benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.03/handbook-0311.html).

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jul 19 2017 - 5:58am
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.