I’m 57 im on permanent SSDI for 2 yrs now at maximum amount based on my earnings. I was married 26 yrs divorced 11 yrs not remarried - my x turns 65 tomorrow.
1 how and when can I find out when he starts collecting SS ?
2 can I collect spousal SS while on SSDI? If so at what age? Can I find out if I have higher earnings or if does? He has been a CEO for the last 10 yrs since we divorced and guessing he has had higher earnings than me these last 10 yrs.
if I’m entitled does it reduce my SSDI at all or is it on top?
When would I apply?
How do I apply?
3 is your service software or a newsletter or caluculator or all the above - is it 40 annually ?
4 I read my SSDI will automatically convert to SS at 66 plus 10 mths (born in 1959) will I be at a reduced rate at this time? Would I be better off to stop my SSDI at the final payment and wait to start my SS at age 70 if I have the cash flow to do so to get the highest payout?

Hi,

You likely couldn't find out from Social Security when your ex-husband starts drawing benefits, nor how much he receives, due to the privacy act.

Assuming that you don't have an eligible child in your care, the earliest that you could potentially be eligible for divorced spousal benefits is age 62. And, you would only qualify for divorced spousal benefits if 50% of your ex's full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than your disability rate. If you qualify, your divorced spousal benefit would be paid separately from and in addition to your SSDI, and the amount of your divorced spousal benefit would be reduced for age if you start taking it prior to your full retirement age. You would need to contact Social Security to apply for the benefits and determine if you qualify.

The maximization software on this website calculates benefit rates and analyzes filing options, and the subscription fee is $40 annually. It does not include a newsletter. And, in order to determine whether or not you qualify for divorced spousal benefits you would need to find out your ex's PIA unless you have a record of his full earnings history.

Your SSDI will convert to regular Social Security retirement benefits at the same benefit rate when you reach full retirement age. You could suspend your payments at that point in order to accrue delayed retirement credits until age 70 (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/delayret.html), but I can't tell you whether or not that would be a good strategy in your case. Our maximization software should be able to help you make that decision.

Best, Jerry