Federal government websites always use a .gov or .mil domain. Before sharing sensitive information online, make sure you’re on a .gov or .mil site by inspecting your browser’s address (or “location”) bar.
Social Security Divorced Spouse Benefits
Eligibility Scenario: Age 49-61 and Unknown if Former Spouse is Deceased
undefined Social Security Divorced Spouse Benefits?
undefined Social Security Divorced Spouse Benefits?
To be eligible for this benefit program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 62 years old and not currently married.
- Be divorced from a person who receives Social Security retirement or disability benefits.
- Have been married to that person for at least 10 years before the date the divorce became final.
- Not be entitled an equal or higher retirement or disability benefits.
Based on the information you gave, you meet the third requirement. Therefore, you could get Social Security divorced spouse's benefits beginning at age 62 if you are not getting a higher benefit on your own work record, you are not married, and your former spouse is receiving benefits. However, if your former spouse is deceased, you could get surviving divorced spouse benefits beginning at age 60.
PLEASE NOTE: If you get (or will get) a pension based on work for an employer who did not withhold Social Security taxes, such as a government agency or an employer in another country, your Social Security benefits may be reduced. Visit SSA’s Publications Page and review A Pension from Work Not Covered by Social Security, Social Security Publication Number 05-10045 and Government Pension Offset, Social Security Publication Number 05-10007.
undefined Social Security Divorced Spouse Benefits?
Visit Apply For Social Security Benefits to apply online.
Would you like more information about divorced spouse's benefits?
Visit SSA's Publications Page and review Chapter 3 of the Social Security Handbook.
Would you like more information about Social Security credits?
Visit SSA's Publications Page and review "Social Security: How You Earn Credits," Social Security Publication Number 05-10072.
You may also contact Social Security by phone at:
1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)