Ex Husband’s Social Security
Hi Terry,
My Mom and Dad were married for 32 years. They got divorced in 2010. He remarried and she hasn’t. My Mom is 67 years old. Is she supposed to be collecting half of his social security? We have been getting mixed answers and just wonder if you could help me figure this out since I’m her Representative Payee. By the way, I have my Dad’s social security number.
Thank you for your time,
Terry Says
If she was married to him for more than 10 years, and never remarried, yes — she is entitled to half his Social Security (or hers on her own work record — whichever is larger).
SocialSecurity SHOULD be able to give you the correct answer — BUT lately I’ve seen such horror stories about their mistakes that I suggest you go to www.MaximizemySocialSecurity.com, pay the $39, and let their terrific software do the calculation for you. Then if SS gives you a different amount (larger OR smaller) they will help you get the correct benefit.
PS. It’s important that your mom reach her full retirement age before collecting. So if she is already 67, that has happened.
