I was married for 25 years to my first husband. I started collecting my social security at 62, but it’s less than $300 a month. I wanted to know if I can draw on my ex-husband’s social security, or maybe my current husband’s? We’ve been married since 2010, but haven’t lived together since 2013, and I’m not sure if I qualify for either one.
Hey, I think if you’re still married, you can’t get benefits from your ex unless you’re divorced. But you could maybe get spousal benefits from your current husband’s Social Security if he’s receiving it. Have you talked to the SSA about this yet?
@Lilnim
That’s right! If your husband is claiming, you could get up to 50% of his benefit, but only if it’s more than your own. Check with SSA though to be sure!
@Lilnim
Oh, I thought you could draw from your ex if your marriage was 10+ years? Even if you’re remarried? I’m confused 
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Riley said:
@Lilnim
Oh, I thought you could draw from your ex if your marriage was 10+ years? Even if you’re remarried? I’m confused
Yeah, that’s true, but since you’re still married to your current husband, you can’t draw from your ex unless you’re divorced. It’s tricky!
I’m in a similar situation, but I found out I can only get benefits from my ex once I’m divorced. My current husband isn’t drawing SS yet, so I’m still stuck with my own lower benefit.
Vale said:
I’m in a similar situation, but I found out I can only get benefits from my ex once I’m divorced. My current husband isn’t drawing SS yet, so I’m still stuck with my own lower benefit.
Yeah, it’s a tough spot. But you can still check with SSA to see if there are any other options for you.
I think you might be eligible for SSI if you’re not able to work anymore. I’d apply for that if you qualify—it could help out with the low income!
Faithjones said:
I think you might be eligible for SSI if you’re not able to work anymore. I’d apply for that if you qualify—it could help out with the low income!
Oh, SSI is for people who have limited income, right? I’ve been trying to figure out how to apply for it myself.
@Oceana
Yes! It’s need-based, so they’ll review your finances and see if you qualify. You should definitely apply if you can’t work. Check out the SSA website for more details.
I’m not sure about the Social Security stuff, but if your friend is paying for the service, they should be able to cancel through the ‘Contact Us’ page on the JustAnswer site. Just go to the help section!
I had the same question a while back. Turns out I couldn’t draw from my ex either because I wasn’t divorced. Hope you get it figured out soon!