Inflation and soaring prices are making thousands of Americans turn to Social Security payments. The Administration claims that there are about 71 million beneficiaries.
So, it is becoming an important part of American society. More and more seniors tend to rely on Social Security retirement benefits. Spouse’s benefits are something many people may have heard of.
But what if you are divorced? Would you be entitled to spouse’s benefits? The Social Security Administration claims that it is possible to receive them as long as you qualify. So, you must meet one key requirement.
WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS TO GET SPOUSE’S BENEFITS IF DIVORCED?
The Social Security Administration states that you may be eligible for spouse’s benefits even i you are divorced. However, your marriage must have lasted for a minimum of ten years. But are you still unmarried?
Bear in mind that you can only claim spouse’s benefits if you are still unmarried. There is another requirement you must meet too. The Administration confirms that this benefit is only possible if you are also 62 years of age or older.
For your information, if you qualify for retirement benefits on your own record, they must be lower than spouse’s benefits. If you are entitled to Social Security disability or retirement benefits, you may also qualify.
It is true that you will not qualify for spouse’s benefits if you have married again. But if your ex-spouse remarries, you may still get Social Security spouse’s benefits.
HOW CAN I APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY SPOUSE’S BENEFITS IN THE USA?
The Administration allows applicants to file online. It is through the Retirement and Medicare Benefit Application tool. There, you can file for spouse’s, retirement, or divorced spouse’s benefits.
Of course, if you meet the age requirements, you may also want to apply for Medicare as well. Do not worry if you apply for divorced spouse’s benefits because it will not affect your ex-spouse’s retirement benefit amounts.
Keep in mind that to qualify for Social Security on your own record, you must have worked in jobs covered by the Administration. If you have not paid enough taxes for at least 10 years, you will not be eligible.
Actually, it would be ideal to work for at least 35 years. The higher your wage and the later you file for Social Security, the larger your check will be. Contact SSA if you have any further questions. Apply to get extra money!
