Ask Larry

Can I Be Entitled To My Husband's Social Security?

Me and my husband are separated. We are still married for 38 years. I bealive he retired hes 56 and so am I. Can I be entitled to his social security?

Hi. You could potentially qualify for spousal benefits based on your husband's earnings at some point, but you'd have to be at least age 62 or have an eligible child in your care to be eligible. Furthermore, your husband would have to be drawing his Social Security retirement or disability benefits in order for you to potentially qualify for spousal benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.03/handbook-0305.html). Being separated from your spouse wouldn't adversely affect your ability to qualify for spousal benefits.

If your husband dies before you, you could potentially qualify for survivor benefits as early as age 60, or as early as age 50 if you're disabled.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Sep 24 2021 - 12:16pm
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