Larry, is it possible for me to claim (50% for 4 years) spousal benefits from my ex of more than 10 years when he retires & begins To collect his while I continue to work or not. And then after the 4 years, apply under my own social Security. I would be eligible for ss retirement 2 months before him but trying to maximize the best process and timing.

Hi. Assuming that you were born after January 1 1954, you couldn't claim divorced spousal benefits without claiming your own Social Security retirement benefits at the same time. And, if you claim either or both benefits prior to full retirement age (FRA), your benefit rate would be reduced for age and payment of your benefits would be subject to the Social Security earnings test (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/whileworking.html).

You may want to strongly consider using our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) to fully analyze the options available to you in order to determine your best strategy for maximizing your benefits.

Best, Jerry