Many seniors in the United States They believe that Social Security retirement benefits are only for workers. Nothing could be further from the truth. Spouses also have their rights. Along these lines, a big question arises: What happens to the payment if the couple divorces? the Social Security Administration (SSA) also includes ex-spouses in divorce benefits, as long as they meet certain eligibility requirements.
According to a 2023 survey by Nationwide Retirement Institute, 38% of adults age 50 or older are unaware of Social Security divorce benefits. And an additional 14% incorrectly believe that divorced spouses are not entitled to additional benefits.
Loss Social Security divorce benefits This is an extension of a worker’s retirement benefits paid to former spouses. It is SSA policy that a divorced person may be eligible for a personal benefit by being the long-term partner and helper of a member of the workforce.
What are the requirements to get Social Security divorce benefits?
Not all ex-partners of a Social Security beneficiary can claim this benefit, as they must meet the following requirements:
- Currently, you cannot be married.
- Your marriage must last at least 10 years.
- You must be at least 62 years old.
- If you’ve been divorced for less than two years, you can’t start a claim until your ex-spouse applies for benefits.
On the other hand, Your ex-spouse does not have to collect retirement benefits for you to receive benefits.. However, if this is the case, the divorce must be at least two years old. (There is no such requirement if your ex-husband or wife is already receiving benefits.)
In addition, Claiming Social Security based on a former spouse’s work history does not affect the amount of your benefit. If your ex remarries, this will also not affect any spousal benefits that his current spouse may be entitled to.
How much do you get paid?
The average amount of spousal benefits or divorce is close $900 dollars per month according to July 2023 data from the Social Security Administration.
The rule for calculating spousal benefits also applies to Social Security divorce benefits. The maximum you will receive is 50% of the amount due to your ex-spouse at full retirement age (FRA).
If you already have the right to Social Security Based on your own work history, you can still receive divorce benefits, but if your payments are lower than what you would receive based on your ex-spouse’s history.
