My ex's AIME should rise markedly over the next decade or two. Would that be a reason to delay claiming my divorced spouse benefits? Once I've begun claiming, will my benefits rise if his PIA rises further? Does the answer change if I outlive him, and switch to survivor's benefits? While his current highest-earning 35 years include decades with no or low earnings, he recently began earning over $200K and probably will for another 15-20 years. I'll likely retire before him, as he's younger and has a new family to support. I realize his current income exceeds the threshold for social security taxation, and that the PIA rises more slowly for high incomes, so the impact of his new high income is limited.

Hi,

No, there would be no reason to wait past your full retirement age to claim divorced spousal benefits. Yes, the benefits would rise if your ex's PIA subsequently increases. And no, the answer does not change if you outlive him and switch to survivor benefits.

Best, Jerry