I took early S S benefits at 62. My X spouse and I were married 17.5 years. I understand that after 2 years of divorce I may be entitled to some of his benefits. How much and when?
When he reached 70 and begins to take his benefit? Or, two years from the divorce when he is 68 and has not yet taken his benefits? thanks so much!

Hi,

As long as your ex is over age 62 and your divorce has been final for at least 2 years you could potentially qualify for divorced spousal benefits even if your ex hasn't started drawing his benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.03/handbook-0311.html). But, you would only qualify for divorced spousal benefits if 50% of your ex's full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than your own PIA. The amount that you could potentially receive from his record is the difference in those 2 amounts. If that amount is positive it could then be paid in addition to your reduced retirement benefits. However, if you start drawing divorced spousal benefits before your full retirement age they will also be reduced for age.

Best, Jerry