Hi ,
I was marry for more than 10 years . Divorced . I want to collect ss at age 62 . My social less than my ex husband . How are they calculate .

Thank you
Pam

Hi Pam,

First, the unreduced benefit amount(s) are calculated. The unreduced benefits are the amounts that would be payable if you filed at full retirement age. The amount payable on your own record is based on an average of the best 35 years of inflation adjusted earnings. If you had less than 35 years of earnings, zero earnings years are included in the averaging.

Unreduced divorced spousal benefits are based on 50% of the ex-spouse's full retirement age benefit amount, which is calculated using the method described above. If the person filing for divorced spousal benefits is also entitled to benefits on their own record, or if they are deemed to file on their own account, the unreduced excess spousal benefit is equal to the difference between their own full retirement age benefit amount, and 50% of their ex's full retirement age benefit amount, assuming the latter amount is higher.

So, for example, say a person's own full retirement age benefit amount is $500, and their ex's full retirement age benefit amount is $2000. If they apply for benefits on both accounts at their full retirement age, they would receive a combined monthly benefit of $1000. $500 of that is their own benefit, and the other $500 is their excess divorced spousal benefit (i.e. $2000/2 - $500).

If the person in this example takes reduced benefits at age 62, both benefits would be reduced. For people turning 62 this year, the reduction percentage at age 62 is 25% on their own benefit, and 30% on their divorced spousal benefit. So, the combined age 62 benefit for this person would be $725 (i.e. ($500 x .75)+($500 x .70)).

By the way, your ex-husband must be at least age 62 or be drawing disability benefits in order for you to be eligible for divorced spousal benefits.

Best, Jerry