Can a spouse of an eligible worker also collect benefits, even if the couple is divorced?
Yes, as discussed above, all spouses may collect up to 50% of their spouse’s benefits or choose to receive benefits based on their own career earnings. For divorced spouses, they must have been 1) married for at least 10 years; 2) be divorced for at least two years; and 3) not currently married to another person. Remember that you may only collect benefits based on your career earnings or that of your spouse, not both. Also, you can collect benefits early as well, though they will be reduced according to the formula outlined above. You may also collect with or without informing your spouse or ex-spouse. Their benefits will not be affected by you in any way.
