Ask Larry

Is It Possible To Draw From My Ex-Spouse Instead Of My Own?

I am 78 now, retired age 64, divorced after 29 years, in 1986. Have not remarried. I'm drawing SS on my own. Is it possible to draw from exspouse instead of mine, if it is more?

Hi,

Yes. You wouldn't actually stop receiving your own benefit in that event, you would instead just receive an additional partial divorced spousal benefit. If your ex is living, the potential additional benefit would be equal to 50% of his full retirement age rate (PIA) minus your own PIA, and if he's deceased it could be as high as his full benefit rate minus your benefit rate.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
May 18 2018 - 3:02pm
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