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How to Get Social Security Benefits from an Ex-Spouse

An article published today on CBSMoneyWatch.com addresses how to access additional Social Security monies based on the earnings of an ex-husband or ex-wife.

CBS financial blogger Steve Vernon lays out the ground rules about how this works:

1) If you were married for at least 10 years and then got divorced, you are eligible to collect Social Security on 50 percent of your ex-spouse’s benefits. If you were married even one day shy of 10 years, you will not be eligible for spouse’s benefits.

2) The amount of your benefits will depend on the age at which you start to collect Social Security.  You’ll maximize your benefits by waiting until Full Retirement Age—66. But you can start collecting them as early as age 62. However, you’d receive about 30 percent less if collection begins at 62.

3) You cannot collect your own benefits and your spouse’s benefits. If your wage earnings produce a larger benefit than your ex-spouse’s then you’ll want to collect your own benefit.

4) Collecting a spouse’s benefit because of your ex’s earnings won’t impact his or her benefit. Even if he or she remarries, their new spouse can also receive a spouse’s income.

Read more.

Did you know people could collect Social Security money based on the existence of an ex-husband or wife?

If you need help with your Social Security benefits, contact the Social Security Disability lawyers at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin.

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