Ask Larry

I just turned 66 (FRA) and have been collecting on my record for a few years. I meet all of the qualifications for an ex-spouse (never remarried, married over 10 years, etc). I thought that I could start drawing the 50% of benefits off of my former spouse's record (which would be about $200 more per month) now that I am 66. I spoke with my local SS office who said that since I'm already drawing, I can't draw off my former spouse. I've read that you can't always depend on advice you get from SSA. Do you know whether what I was told is correct?

Hi,

Assuming that your ex is living, you would only be eligible for divorced spousal benefits if 50% of your ex's PIA (i.e. primary insurance amount, or full retirement age rate) is higher than your own PIA.

For example, say John takes reduced retirement benefits at age 62. His PIA is $1000, but he receives a reduced rate of $750. John's ex-spouse's PIA would have to be more than $2000 in order for him to be eligible for additional divorced spousal benefits.

Best, Jerry