Ask Larry

Can I Claim My Ex's Social Security?

My ex abandoned our marriage and his step son after 6yrs can I claim his social security

Hi. You must have been married for a minimum of 10 years to be able to qualify for divorced spousal benefits. However, if your ex is deceased and if you have a child in your care who is either under age 16 or disabled, then you may be able to qualify for surviving divorced mother's benefits if your child qualifies for child's benefits on your ex's Social Security record.

If you're still legally married and simply separated or estranged from your spouse, then you may be able to qualify for spousal or survivor benefits if your spouse is either deceased or is drawing his Social Security benefits.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Mar 6 2021 - 8:25am
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