Ask Larry

Will I Receive Any Of My Ex-Spouse's SS When He Retires?

Divorced after 36 years, I retired on SSD at age 62. My ex is still working but will retire soon, I believe at age 66/4mths. Will I receive any of his SS?

Hi. You could potentially qualify for divorced spousal benefits effective with the earlier of a) the first month that your ex-spouse starts drawing his benefits, or b) the first full month that your divorce has been final for at least 2 years. However, you'll only be eligible for divorced spousal benefits if your ex's primary insurance amount (PIA) is more than twice as much as your own PIA. A person's PIA is equal to their Social Security retirement benefit rate if they start drawing their benefits at full retirement age (FRA), or their full Social Security disability (SSDI) benefit rate (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.03/handbook-0311.html).

Also, if you do qualify for divorced spousal benefits and if you claim them prior to your FRA, your divorced spousal rate will be reduced for age.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Apr 12 2022 - 2:37pm
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