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Divorced Spousal Benefits

Can We Get More By Getting Divorced?

Hi Larry - I want to make sure I understand. 2 people (husband and wife) exact same age (born 1964), both high earners over many years, 0 children, no disabilities & can afford to wait to age 70. Can these 2 people increase their earnings by divorcing at age 68 and receiving 2 social security checks instead of just 1 reduced/combined check?

Posted: 
Thursday, June 9, 2016 - 00:00

Can We Get More By Getting Divorced?

Please let me know what you think of this scenario, assuming maximum earnings is the goal. 2 people (husband and wife) exact same age (born 1964), both high earners over many years, 0 children, no disabilities & can afford to wait to age 70. Question 1: Should they get divorced at age 68 in order to earn 2 social security checks (instead of the maximum family benefit)? Question 2: Is there any scenario in which it makes sense to get divorced at age 65 and for one to claim divorced spousal (or their own social security ) between ages 67 to 70 while the other waits to age 70?

Posted: 
Friday, May 27, 2016 - 20:45
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