I divorced after 9 years of marriage and have been single for 26yrs. I'm 63 this year. Seems there are many ways for married couples to get optimal benefits but can I file for anything other than my straight retirement? My job is extremely physical and I have Perminent Partial Disability for 2 separate work related injuries. BWC covers meds and rare treatment. I continue to work but can't stand the pain much longer. I'm at a loss here. Been working since 1972 and I'm so confused as how , when and any options. Must I dig up someone to marry to be able to retire and have sustainable income? Thanks!

Hi,

You can't get divorced spousal or surviving divorced spousal benefits unless you were married for at least 10 years. However, you are old enough to file for reduced retirement benefits on your own record, assuming that you have at least 40 quarters, or essentially 10 years, of Social Security covered work. There is an earnings test that could limit what you could receive prior to full retirement age depending on your earnings level, though (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/whileworking2.html).

Also, if you are disabled and stop working or reduce your earnings to less than $1170 per month, you could apply for disability benefits, which could essentially permit you to receive your full retirement benefit age rate early.

You may want to consider using the maximization software available on this website in order to explore your options.

Best, Jerry