Hi Larry I am currently collecting SSI benefits I have been since 2008 they won't give me disability benefits because I have no work history since I have been on SSI for so long. I am wondering if and when I can draw off from my Ex wife we was married over 10 years and she has worked full time since making good money? Sorry for being so long thank u so much for your time.

Also, I don't understand why as kept me on SSI for so long I feel like they did this intentionally so I can't draw my Disability now they claim since I have no work History? Can you help me with this issue please? Thank you so much Frank

Hi Frank. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs based benefit that Social Security administers. It's intended as a last resort type of payment for people who don't have much in the way of income or resources, and who don't qualify for other types of benefits like Social Security. It sounds like you don't qualify for Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits because of your lack of an earnings history, which is why you're apparently only receiving SSI. You can't collect SSDI benefits unless you worked and paid into Social Security long enough to qualify.

The soonest that you could potentially be able to qualify for benefits on your ex-wife's record is when you are age 62, and she is either a) at least age 62, or b) she's drawing SSDI benefits, or c) she's deceased. If you do qualify for any divorced spousal benefits, though, those benefits would reduce your SSI benefits roughly dollar for dollar.

Best, Jerry