Q & A
My ex-husband works…will those earnings reduce my spousal benefits?
Complete Question: I am filing to receive ex-spouse Social Security benefits. I was told by a friend of mine that her benefits are reduced because her husband works and makes too much money. I know my ex-husband works. Will his earnings reduce my benefits?
Answer: It sounds like your friend is talking about the Annual Earnings Limit. If you are under full retirement age and you earn over a certain limit, you (and your dependents receiving benefits on your record) will receive a reduction in your benefit amount. However, this does not apply to ex-spouses. Therefore, it does not matter how much your ex-husband earns – it will not affect your benefit amount. Only your own earnings could possibly reduce your benefit.
It is also noteworthy to mention that ex-spousal benefits are not applied to the family maximum.
C.J. Miles, MSA, MBAHCM
Research Analyst/Certified Social Security Advisor (NSSA)
AMAC Foundation
Notice: If you have any additional questions regarding spouse or ex-spouse benefits, or any other Social Security issue, you can reply below. If you would like to discuss your situation privately, you can email C.J. at cmiles@amacfoundation.com. Please do not provide any personal identification information, such as Social Security numbers.