Social Security Divorced Spouse Benefit Eligibility Checker

Check if you're eligible for Social Security benefits on your ex-spouse's record, and estimate how much you could receive.

You can collect Social Security based on your ex-spouse's work record if your marriage lasted at least 10 years, you're currently unmarried, you're both at least 62, and either your ex has filed for their own benefit or you've been divorced at least 2 years. It doesn't reduce your ex-spouse's benefit at all.

Many divorced people don't realize they may still be entitled to Social Security benefits based on their former spouse's earnings record, separate from anything their ex-spouse receives. The eligibility rules are specific, though, and the 10-year marriage requirement in particular has no exceptions. Answer the questions below to check where you stand against each requirement.

Eligibility Checker

Check Divorced Spouse Eligibility

Divorced spouse benefits exist because Social Security recognizes that a long marriage often involves shared financial decisions, even after divorce. If you were married at least 10 years, you may be entitled to benefits based on your ex-spouse's record, worth up to 50% of their Primary Insurance Amount at your own full retirement age. This has zero effect on what your ex-spouse or their current spouse receives. It's calculated entirely separately. The 10-year marriage rule is the most common reason people don't qualify, and Social Security applies it strictly. A marriage of 9 years and 11 months does not count, no exceptions. One rule that surprises people: you don't necessarily need to wait for your ex-spouse to file for their own benefits first. If you've been divorced at least 2 years and you're both 62 or older, you can claim independently. If you're also entitled to your own retirement benefit, you'll receive whichever is higher, your own benefit or the divorced spouse benefit, not both combined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I collect Social Security on my ex-husband's or ex-wife's record?

Yes, if you meet all of these conditions: your marriage lasted at least 10 years, you're currently unmarried, you're at least 62, your ex-spouse is at least 62, and either your ex-spouse has filed for their own benefit or you've been divorced at least 2 years.

Does claiming a divorced spouse benefit reduce my ex-spouse's benefit?

No. It has no effect on your ex-spouse's benefit amount or on any benefit their current spouse may receive. Your ex doesn't even need to be notified.

How much can I get as a divorced spouse?

Up to 50% of your ex-spouse's Primary Insurance Amount, if you claim at your own full retirement age. Claiming earlier permanently reduces the amount.

What if my marriage lasted exactly 9 years and 11 months?

It does not qualify. The 10-year marriage requirement is a strict cutoff with no exceptions or rounding, measured from the marriage date to the date the divorce was legally finalized.

Do I have to wait for my ex-spouse to file for benefits?

Not necessarily. If you've been divorced for at least 2 years and both of you are at least 62, you can claim a divorced spouse benefit even if your ex hasn't filed yet.

What if I remarried?

Remarrying generally ends your eligibility to claim on your former spouse's record. If that later marriage also ends, by divorce, annulment, or death, your eligibility on the earlier ex-spouse's record can be restored.

Can I get both my own retirement benefit and a divorced spouse benefit?

No, not added together. Social Security pays you the higher of the two amounts.

This tool provides a general eligibility check and estimate based on current Social Security Administration rules and does not constitute financial or legal advice. It assumes your ex-spouse has sufficient work history to qualify for Social Security, which it cannot independently verify. Eligibility can also depend on additional details specific to your situation. For an official eligibility determination and exact benefit amount, contact the Social Security Administration directly or create a free account at ssa.gov/myaccount.