My ex started drawing his S.S at 62 since then he has received several COLAS he is now 74 and his S.S. is much more than when he started to draw it. When I file for spousal bennefits will the amount I receive include the COLAS or the reduced amount only?

Hi,

If you qualify for divorced spousal benefits on your ex's record, your unreduced benefit rate would be calculated based on 50% of your ex's primary insurance amount (PIA). A person's PIA is adjusted to credit all Social Security cost of living increases (COLA) that occur after they reach age 62. So, yes, your divorced spousal rate would include credit for any COLAs that have occurred since your ex started drawing his benefits.

Before you file, you should strongly consider using our maximization software to explore and compare your various options so that you can choose the best possible filing strategy.

Best, Jerry