Hi, I am 63 and my ex is 65. Do I have to wait until I am 66 to get my spousal benefit? We were married 16 years, and have been divorced for 17. Thanks, Beverly

Beverly, if you are eligible for it, you can claim your divorced spousal benefit as early as 62, but it will be reduced. Also, if you file for your divorced spousal benefit before your full retirement age (FRA), you'll be deemed to have also filed for your retirement benefit, which will also be reduced. Since your ex is over 62 and you have been divorced at least 2 consecutive years, you are eligible to file for your divorced spousal benefit whether your ex has filed for their retirement benefit or not. Our software can help you determine when to file for your divorced spousal benefit as well as your divorced widow's benefit if applicable in order to receive maximum lifetime benefits. Thanks, John