Ask Larry

Hi Larry,
I have been receiving divorced spouse benefits and delaying my own social security benefit since October 2019. I turned 66 in September of 2019. My plan was to let my benefit grow until I reach age 70. I met a great guy four years ago and we are planning on getting married in November of 2021. I will continue to work full-time until I retire in December of 2021. Will I be able to continue to get half of my ex-husband's social security if I remarry at age 68? I still have 2 more years to collect my ex-husband's benefits. It's a substantial amount of money but can't find the answer.

Also, my soon to be spouse was a federal employee and his social security has been affected by the Windfall Elimination Act. He only receives about 40% of his social security. I would like to know if my social security will be affected negatively after I get married in 2021, to a retired federal employee. I still plan on collecting my social security at age 70.

Thank you,
Ellen

Hi Ellen,

No, not if your ex-husband is still living. If your ex-husband is deceased, then your surviving divorced spousal benefits would not terminate due to a remarriage. However, if your ex is still living then your eligibility for divorced spousal benefits will terminate effective with the month of your remarriage.

The fact that your new husband receives a federal employee pension would have no effect on your Social Security benefits.

Best, Jerry