Can I collect Social Security benefits based on my ex-spouse’s work record?

Yes. If you were married at least ten years, are currently unmarried, and at least age 62, you can claim up to 50% of your ex-spouse’s full retirement benefit without affecting their payments.

How much will I actually receive from an ex-spouse’s Social Security benefit?

You can receive up to 50% of your ex’s full retirement benefit. If you claim before your full retirement age, the amount is permanently reduced. If your own benefit is higher, you’ll get your personal amount instead.

Will remarrying affect my eligibility for ex-spousal benefits?

Generally, yes—remarrying before age 60 disqualifies you from ex-spousal benefits. However, if you remarry after age 60 (or 50 if disabled), you may regain eligibility for survivor benefits based on your first marriage.

Can I claim survivor benefits after my ex-spouse passes away?

Yes. If your marriage lasted at least ten years and you’re at least 60 (or 50 if disabled), you can claim up to 100% of your ex’s benefit. These survivor benefits may exceed standard divorced spousal payments.

What documents do I need to apply for benefits based on my ex’s record?

You’ll need your ex-spouse’s full name, date of birth (and Social Security number if available), your marriage certificate, divorce decree, and your own ID and Social Security information. You can apply online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office.

How Divorce Impacts Your Social Security Benefits (And What Most People Get Wrong)

Divorced? You could still collect thousands in Social Security benefits based on your ex’s work history—without affecting their payments. Most people have no idea they even qualify. Yet with the right information, you can avoid losing money you’ve legally earned. Millions of Americans overlook divorced spousal and survivor benefits simply because the rules are buried in fine print. If you were married for at least ten years, are currently unmarried, and meet other key requirements, you may be entitled to monthly checks in retirement.

How Divorce Affects Your Social Security Benefits

Can You Claim Social Security Through Your Ex?

If you were married for at least ten years, you may be eligible to collect Social Security based on your ex-spouse’s work record. This holds true even if you’re no longer in contact with them or they’ve remarried. As long as you’re 62 or older and currently unmarried, you may qualify. What’s more, your claim does not reduce the benefits your ex or their new spouse receives.

You also don’t need your ex’s permission to file, and they won’t be notified when you apply. The Social Security Administration only needs basic information like their name and date of birth to access their records. If your ex qualifies for benefits—even if they haven’t claimed them—you can still apply. These rules are designed to protect people who may have earned less while supporting a household.

How Much Will You Get From an Ex-Spouse’s Record?

If you qualify, you could receive up to 50% of your ex-spouse’s full retirement benefit. This amount is based on what your ex is eligible for at their full retirement age, not the amount they’re currently receiving. If your own Social Security benefit is lower, they’ll pay that first and add the difference. However, if your benefit is higher, you’ll only receive your own amount.

Claiming before your full retirement age will reduce the spousal benefit permanently. For many, waiting until full retirement age can make a big financial difference. You also won’t receive any delayed retirement credits your ex may earn by waiting to file. This means timing your claim wisely is just as important as knowing you’re eligible.