Ask Larry

Can I Collect Benefits Under My First Spouse?

I was a widow at a young age. I married another man for 7 years and divorced and now am currently married for 25 years. Can I collect survivors benefits under my first spouse? I am currently 63 in a week.
Thank you!

Hi. No, at least not at the present time. In order to qualify for widow's benefits you must either be a) unmarried, or b) married but your current marriage took place after you reached age 60. Therefore, since you are apparently married and your current marriage took place before you turned age 60, you couldn't currently qualify for widow's benefits on the account of your first spouse.

It sounds like you may want to strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze all of your options so that you can determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Sep 15 2022 - 6:24pm
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