How You can Receive Spousal or Divorced Benefits as a Social Security Recipient

More and more retirees are boosting their overall Social Security benefits each month, even if they never worked a day in their life. Individuals who are 62 years old or more, or are the parent of a qualifying child, with a current or former spouse currently claiming retirement benefits, may be eligible to receive spousal or divorced benefits. Sometimes this could mean as much as an extra $500 to $800, depending on the following criteria.

Unfortunately, there seems to be some misinformation regarding spousal SS benefits, as though you must be currently married to collect. Fortunately, many individuals qualify to receive spousal benefits even after they have been divorced. If your marriage lasted ten years or more, you could be eligible to receive additional benefits provided on a former spouse’s records. However, there are a few stipulations to qualify, though. For example, you cannot be re-married, otherwise, you would file for benefits on the record of your current spouse. Additionally, the SS benefit on your work record must be below that which you would receive under a former spouse to qualify.

Once you are three months away from turning age 62 you can check for eligibility by calling or visiting your local Social Security office. Although it isn’t required, an appointment will enable you to know whether or not you qualify for spousal benefits. There are a few documents that will make your visit easier, including proof of birth (i.e., birth certificate), proof of US citizenship (or lawful status), W-2 forms (or self-employment tax returns), and marriage certificate (or final divorce decree if divorced). While you can use photocopies of self-employment tax returns, W-2 forms, and medical documents, you must provide an original copy of your marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.

The Social Security Administration continues to encourage individuals to apply even if they currently do not have access to some of the aforementioned documents. In most cases, the SSA will be well-equipped to assist in helping to obtain or recover the missing necessary documents. When it comes to checking for eligibility, applicants are also required to supply personal information such as military status, work history, citizenship status, and the number and ages of their children (where applicable).

Receiving the most from your Social Security benefits can provide a level of security you would be hard-pressed to find elsewhere upon entering retirement. For many retirees, obtaining additional monthly income often comes in the form of a spousal or divorced Social Security benefit. By taking the time to educate yourself before reaching retirement years, or speaking with a financial advisor, you will be poised to take an informed approach toward obtaining spousal benefits rather than scrambling to understand eligibility in a pinch.