Spousal Benefit
Social Security Benefits based on an Ex-Spouse
If you were married at least 10 years before your divorce, you may be eligible for benefits on your ex-spouse’s Social Security record. Not even a divorce decree can take away your eligibility for benefits if you meet the length…
Are You Eligible for a Social Security Spousal Benefit?
Both current spouses and divorced spouses may be eligible for a spousal benefit. A spouse can receive a spousal benefit if their spouse is eligible for a Social Security benefit and already receiving it. You don’t even have to have…
Demystifying Social Security Spouse Benefits
Among Social Security’s myriad regulations, few topics are more misunderstood than spouse benefits. Terminology is important here – “spouse benefits” in Social Security (SS) parlance refers to benefits one spouse can collect from the other’s record while both spouses are…
Ask Rusty – I’d like to retire early, but don’t want my Social Security reduced
Dear Rusty: I will be 65 this year and my husband is 72 (he retired in 2019 at age 66). I would like to retire and enjoy some time with him before he gets too much older. I do not…
Never Worked? You May Still Be Eligible for a Social Security Benefit.
There are circumstances when someone that never worked may still be eligible for a Social Security benefit. The most common one is a spousal benefit (ex-spousal benefits if married at least 10 years). You can receive a Social Security benefit…
Ask Rusty – Can My Wife and I get Spouse Benefits from each other?
Dear Rusty: My wife and I are currently collecting Social Security. We both started receiving SS at 62 years old. That said, we get by on a tight budget. A retired friend told us about an option which allows a…
Ask Rusty – If My Wife Claims Now, Will It Hurt My Social Security Amount?
Dear Rusty: I am 69 years old, and my wife turned 70 early this year. I am still working full time. My wife is not working, but she got a letter from Social Security saying she should take her Social…