Can I take my own Social Security benefits then switch to spousal?

Can I take my own Social Security benefits then switch to spousal?

In this case, you can claim your own Social Security beginning at 62 and make the switch to spousal benefits when your husband or wife files. Social Security will not pay the sum of your retirement and spousal benefits; you’ll get a payment equal to the higher of the two benefits.

Can I get my husband’s Social Security if it’s more than mine?

En español | Technically, yes, you can receive both spousal benefits and your own retirement payment. If the spousal benefit is larger, Social Security pays your retirement benefit first, then adds enough of your spousal benefit to make up the difference and match the higher amount.

What happens when both spouses collect Social Security and one dies?

If you are already receiving a spousal benefit when your husband or wife dies, Social Security will in most cases convert it automatically to a survivor benefit once the death is reported. Otherwise, you will need to apply for survivor benefits by phone at 800-772-1213 or in person at your local Social Security office.

Can I collect Social Security from my ex husband and myself?

Social Security and Divorce. Unfortunately, once you take your own retirement benefit, you can no longer take a spousal or divorced spousal benefit on its own, in which case you’d collect a full spousal or full divorced spousal benefit, equal to half of your husband’s or ex-husband’s full retirement benefit.

Can I collect Social Security benefits from two ex-spouses?

And if your ex-spouse has one or more other ex-spouses who have also not remarried, that will not reduce your benefits . When you file for benefits, the Social Security Administration gives you the larger of your own benefit or an ex-spousal (or spousal) benefit.

Can ex wife collect her ex husbands social security?

Here’s how it works. A divorced spouse can collect a Social Security retirement benefit on the work record of an ex-husband or ex-wife if the divorced spouse is at least age 62, was married for at least 10 years, is unmarried now, and isn’t eligible for a higher benefit based on his or her own work record.

How long do you have to be married to collect Social Security?

You are correct that you must be married for at least 10 years to qualify for spousal benefits; however, for survivor benefits you must only be married for nine months. The amount you will receive if you qualify for survivor benefits depends on your age at the time you collect benefits.