Can you collect SS benefits from an ex-spouse in California?

Can you collect SS benefits from an ex-spouse in California?

There may be a multitude of individuals who rely on Social Security benefits to achieve financial health after entering retirement. There are a variety of factors that may determine the amount of monthly benefits you will receive via this program, and knowing how to make the most of your benefits can be essential, yet complex at times.

If you are divorced, there is a chance that you might be eligible to receive benefit payments based on your ex-spouse’s California work history, and this amount could be the higher option at times. Knowing how to tell if you are eligible for such an option could be integral to preparing to take steps to protect your financial future.

Divorced spouse benefits

Experts indicate that there are several requirements that may determine your eligibility for divorce spouse benefits via Social Security, some of which include:

• Marital status: It may be helpful to know that you may only be eligible to receive benefits from an ex-spouse if you did not enter another marriage after divorcing this party.
• Ex-spouse’s benefits: Experts also indicate that you may only be eligible to receive divorced spouse benefits if your ex-spouse is currently receiving benefits via Social Security or SSDI.
• Length of your marriage: The length of your marriage may also be a vital factor to address, as this option may only be available if you and your ex-spouse were married for at least ten years.
• Benefit amounts: There may also be some scenarios in which the amount of benefits you will receive via such a path might be lesser than what you are already entitled to.

Even if you feel that you meet the requirements for divorced spouse benefits, preparing for this process can still be intimidating, but this isn’t something you have to approach on your own.

Seeking advice on your options

If the amount you would receive via SSA divorced spouse benefits exceeds what you would otherwise obtain, this may be a viable path to preserving your financial future. Since determining eligibility and knowing the steps to take to apply for such benefits can be complex in nature, it might be in your best interests to seek guidance in navigating this process. Such a decision could play a vital role in helping you take every necessary step to safeguard your future by pursuing the full amount of benefits achievable.