Q&A of the Week October 6, 2021

Question:

I am divorced. Do I still have access to my ex-spouse's Social Security benefits?

Answer:

If you were married for at least 10 consecutive years, yes, you receive the 50% spousal benefit.

If your ex has passed away and you are unmarried or if you remarried after the age of 60, you get 100% of the survivor benefit.

If you are disabled, you are eligible for the spousal benefit at age 50.

Here's an example:

Jane and Bill divorced after 15 years of marriage. Bill retires at age 67 and is receiving $1,500 in Social Security each month. Jane is single and can use her ex-spousal benefit to receive $750 per month. If Bill dies, Jane can receive the full $1,500 each month.