We are not of retirement age yet but I want to know if my husbands ex-wife would be eligible for his SS benefits should he die before either of us. He was married for 5 years (separated) but did not officially file for divorce until 16 years after separation. She has never remarried.

Hi,

Yes, it sounds like your husband's ex-wife may potentially qualify for divorced spousal benefits and/or surviving divorced spousal benefits on your husband's record at some point (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.03/handbook-0311.html). However, her entitlement to benefits on your husband's record would have no effect on your potential spousal or widow's benefits.

Best, Jerry