I just went through this process myself about 6 months ago and wanted to share what worked for me! The online application definitely works for ex-spouse benefits, but here are some tips that made it smoother: 1. Make sure you have your ex's full legal name exactly as it appears on official documents - middle names, suffixes, etc. The SSA system is picky about exact matches. 2. You don't need to notify your ex that you're applying. The SSA handles everything behind the scenes and your ex won't even know unless they specifically ask SSA about their record. 3. For the document uploads, I found it helpful to call them "clear and legible scans" - use a scanning app on your phone rather than just taking photos. The contrast needs to be really good or they'll reject them. 4. One thing I wish someone had told me: you can actually start the application, save it, and come back to finish it later if you need to gather more documents. Don't feel pressured to complete everything in one sitting. The whole process took about 3 weeks from application to first payment for me. The reduction at 62 was worth it in my case since I needed the income. Hang in there - the online system really does work once you get past the initial hurdles!

I went through this exact situation last year and want to offer some encouragement! The online application absolutely works for ex-spouse benefits, despite what some people say about technical issues. Here's my successful approach: 1. Gather everything BEFORE starting: marriage certificate, divorce decree (just the pages showing marriage/divorce dates and final judgment), your ex's full name and DOB (SSN helpful but not required). 2. Use Chrome browser with ad blockers disabled, and apply during off-peak hours (I did mine around 11 PM on a Tuesday). 3. The application will ask about previous marriages - say yes and provide your ex's info. The system automatically calculates whether your own benefit or spousal benefit is higher. 4. You can save your progress and return later! The application stays active for 30 days, so don't rush if you need to find documents. 5. For document uploads, use your phone's scanning app rather than photos - the contrast needs to be crisp or they'll reject them. The whole process took me about 45 minutes and I was approved in 2 weeks. Yes, you'll get a reduced benefit at 62, but sometimes having income now is more important than waiting. The SSA won't contact your ex - they handle everything internally. Don't let the horror stories discourage you from trying online first. It really does work for most people! Good luck!

One last piece of advice - after you submit your application, create a my Social Security account on ssa.gov if you haven't already. You can track your application status there, and once you're receiving benefits, you can get benefit verification letters, change your address, set up or change direct deposit, and get your 1099 at tax time. It's super convenient and saves you from having to call or visit the office for routine things.

Just went through this process myself 6 months ago! You're smart to be proactive about it. One thing I wish someone had told me - when you fill out the online application, it will ask if you want to apply for Medicare Part B if you're not already enrolled. Since you mentioned you're already on Medicare, you can skip that section, but read it carefully because the wording can be confusing. Also, don't stress too much about the work history section - they already have most of your earnings records from your tax filings over the years. The system will pre-populate a lot of information and you just need to verify it's correct. Good luck with your retirement!

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses. This clarifies a lot for our retirement planning. I'll definitely look into speaking with SSA directly about our specific situation, but it's good to know I have options if the unfortunate happens. The strategy of taking survivor benefits while letting my own continue to grow until 70 makes a lot of sense financially.

This is such valuable information for retirement planning. I'm in a similar boat - reached FRA but haven't claimed yet, and my spouse is a few years younger. The ability to claim survivor benefits while letting your own retirement benefits grow with delayed retirement credits until age 70 is a strategy I hadn't fully understood before reading this thread. It's reassuring to know there's flexibility in these difficult situations, even though nobody wants to think about losing their spouse. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and knowledge here.

Reading through all these experiences has been so helpful! I'm in a somewhat similar situation - I've been on SSDI for about 5 years and will be turning 62 next year. My marriage lasted 11 years before we divorced, and I've been single ever since. One thing that hasn't been mentioned much is the impact on taxes. Since I'm already close to the income threshold where Social Security benefits become taxable, I'm wondering if anyone knows whether the additional amount from ex-spousal benefits would push me into owing taxes on my Social Security income? Right now I don't pay federal taxes on my SSDI, but I'm worried that extra income might change that. Also, has anyone had experience with this when your ex-spouse lives in a different state? I know mine moved to Texas about 10 years ago, but I'm not sure if that complicates the application process at all. Thanks to everyone who's shared their stories - it's making this whole process seem much less intimidating!

This thread has been incredibly informative! I'm in a similar boat - turning 62 in a few months and have been on SSDI for about 7 years. My biggest takeaway is that it sounds like there's really no downside to at least calling SSA and getting the numbers, since you can't actually lose money by applying. One thing I wanted to add that might help others: I recently discovered that many local Social Security offices offer in-person appointments if phone calls feel too overwhelming. I know some people (especially those of us dealing with disabilities) sometimes find face-to-face conversations easier to follow than long phone calls. You can schedule appointments online through the SSA website, and they're usually less rushed than phone conversations. @Ivanna St. Pierre - based on everything I've read here, it really sounds like getting those benefit estimates from SSA is your best next step. Even if the extra amount at 62 isn't huge, having that additional monthly income could help with your medical expenses. And knowing that your Medicare won't be affected no matter what you choose has to be a huge relief! Thanks to everyone who shared their real experiences - it makes navigating this system feel so much less scary when you hear from people who've actually been through it.

Just wanted to add - if you're doing this for marriage, make sure your marriage certificate is certified! I made the mistake of bringing a regular copy and they wouldn't accept it. Had to go back to the courthouse to get a certified one. Also, if you have any questions about what counts as "certified," call ahead - some offices are pickier than others. The whole process is definitely a hassle but you'll get through it! 💪

Thanks for starting this thread! I'm actually going through the same process right now. One thing I learned from calling the SSA office directly is that you should also bring a backup form of ID if you have one (like a passport if you're bringing your driver's license as primary ID). The agent told me sometimes one form might not scan properly in their system, so having a backup can save you a trip back. Also, if you're nervous about the appointment, don't be! The staff I spoke with were really helpful and patient. You got this! 🙌