Ask Larry

Is It Too Late To Ask Social Security For Proof That My Ex-Husband's Benefit Amount Was Lower Than Mine?

I am 68 ,I already started my benefits, but was told my ex husband who died and was a doctor did not have more then me. Is it too late to ask them for proof?

Hi. I'm not sure what you would be looking for in the way of proof, but what you can do is contact Social Security to insist on applying for surviving divorced spousal benefits. Social Security would then need to make a formal determination of your eligibility. If your claim is disallowed, your disallowance notice should explain why your claim was disallowed. If you're not satisfied with their decision, you would then have appeal rights.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Aug 29 2022 - 5:02pm
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.