Social security collection is a complicated process in itself, but ensuring that you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to becomes even more confusing when trying to collect from an ex-spouse.
Security Benefits
In order to receive social security benefits from an ex-spouse, you must:
- Have been married for a minimum of 10 years.
- Be unmarried and at least 62 years of age.
- Not be eligible for equal or higher compensation on your Social Security record or on someone else’s.
Social Security claims need to meet all the above conditions in order to be considered valid. You can receive up to 50% of an ex-spouse’s social security benefit, but that percentage decreases depending on when you file your claim. Once you turn 66 years old, which is considered full retirement age, you’re entitled to the full 50% if you qualify under the above conditions.
Re-marriage
If you remarry, the social security benefits you receive from an ex-spouse will end. If you remarry and that marriage comes to an end through divorce or death, you may be entitled to receive benefits once again.
Also, any benefits you may receive through your ex-spouse’s social security will not affect the total amount paid to your ex-spouse.
Related Sources: Charlotte News Observer, AARP.org
