I went through this same situation about 2 years ago when I got approved for SSDI at age 59. My husband was already receiving his benefits and I thought I'd automatically get the spousal top-up, but I was wrong! You definitely have to apply separately - nothing is automatic with SSA unfortunately. What I learned is that even if half your husband's benefit seems higher than yours, the age reduction can really eat into that amount. At 61, you're looking at about a 27% reduction on the spousal portion. So if half his benefit is $1300, after reduction it would be closer to $950, which is actually less than your $1400 SSDI payment. My advice: still apply now to get it on record, but don't expect much additional money until you hit full retirement age. The good news is if you do qualify for even a small amount, you'll get backpay from when you first applied. I used the local SSA office for my application since the online system kept glitching on spousal benefit forms. Good luck!

I'm in a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm 63 and just got approved for SSDI at $1200/month, while my husband gets $2400. I was also hoping for that spousal top-up, but now I understand the age reduction factor better. One thing I wanted to add - when I called my local SSA office directly (not the 1-800 number), I actually got through pretty quickly. The local offices seem less overwhelmed than the national phone system. The representative there explained that even if you don't qualify for additional benefits now due to the age reduction, having the spousal benefit application on file is important because when you reach FRA, they can automatically recalculate and start paying the higher amount without you having to reapply. Also, she mentioned that if your husband's benefit increases due to cost-of-living adjustments over the years, your spousal benefit calculation will also increase, which might eventually put you over the threshold even before FRA. So definitely worth applying now even if the immediate payout is zero!

Just wanted to add that you should also be prepared for the application process to take some time. When I applied for divorced spouse benefits, it took about 6-8 weeks to process even though I had all the documentation ready. The good news is that if approved, they'll backdate the payments to when you first became eligible. Also, make sure to keep copies of everything you submit - your divorce decree, marriage certificate, and any correspondence with SSA. The system can be slow but you're definitely entitled to these benefits based on what you've described. Good luck with your application!

This is such valuable information for anyone in a similar situation! I'm going through something comparable - I'm 62 and just applied for SSDI after a lengthy battle. My ex and I were married for 18 years before divorcing 4 years ago. Reading through all these responses really helps clarify the process. One thing I'd add is that when you call SSA, try calling first thing in the morning right when they open at 8 AM - I've had better luck getting through then rather than mid-day. Also, if you're having trouble reaching them by phone, some local SSA offices allow walk-ins for certain types of applications, though you'll want to call ahead to confirm. The divorced spouse benefit can really make a significant difference financially, so definitely don't give up if the first person you talk to seems confused about the rules - sometimes it takes speaking with a supervisor or specialist to get accurate information.

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! To summarize what I've learned: only my work income counts toward the earnings limit (about $22,300 for 2025), NOT my Social Security benefits. And they use the gross amount before deductions. I really appreciate all the clarification - this makes my retirement planning much easier. I'll be sure to report my expected earnings accurately when I apply next year to avoid any surprises.

Just wanted to add one more helpful tip for anyone in a similar situation - keep detailed records of your monthly earnings throughout the year! I learned this the hard way when SSA asked me to verify my income. Having pay stubs organized by month made the process much smoother. Also, if you have any months where you earn significantly more or less (like seasonal work or bonuses), it's worth calling SSA to update your earnings estimate. They're much more understanding if you're proactive about reporting changes rather than them finding out later during their annual review.

I'm really sorry for your loss. This is such a complex situation, but I'm glad you're thinking ahead and planning for your future. One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that you might want to consider reaching out to a Social Security disability attorney or elder law attorney who has experience with international cases. Many offer free consultations and can help you understand the nuances of claiming benefits while living abroad. They often have established relationships with FBUs and know exactly what documentation you'll need. Also, since you mentioned your children are all adults and US citizens, they might be able to help you navigate some of the US-based requirements if needed. Sometimes having someone stateside who can make calls during business hours or pick up documents can be really helpful. The fact that you have 5 years to prepare is actually a blessing in disguise - most people don't have that luxury of time to get everything organized properly. You're being really smart about starting this research now rather than scrambling when you turn 60. One last thought - if your home country has a US embassy with an FBU, they might also offer informational seminars or workshops about Social Security benefits for Americans abroad. It could be worth checking their website or calling to see if they have any scheduled events that might be helpful.

I'm really sorry for your loss. This thread has been incredibly informative - it's amazing how much helpful information everyone has shared! One additional resource I wanted to mention is the Social Security Administration's "Your Payments While You Are Outside The United States" publication (SSA Publication No. 05-10137). It has detailed information about receiving benefits while living abroad and covers many of the issues that have been discussed here like totalization agreements and payment restrictions by country. You can find it on the SSA website or ask the FBU to provide you with a copy when you meet with them. It's written specifically for people in your situation and might answer some questions you haven't even thought to ask yet. Also, since you're planning 5 years ahead, you might want to set a reminder to check back on any rule changes annually. Social Security rules can change, and international payment policies sometimes get updated. The FBU can help you stay informed about any changes that might affect your situation. Your methodical approach to planning this out is really admirable - your future self will definitely thank you for being so thorough now!

I'm so glad you posted this question because I was literally wondering the same thing! I just started receiving Social Security benefits at 62 and have been terrified about accidentally going over the earnings limit. Reading all these responses has been incredibly educational - I had no idea there was such a clear distinction between "earned" and "unearned" income. It makes perfect sense that they only care about whether you're actively working, not about one-time asset sales or retirement withdrawals. This community is amazing for getting real-world experiences from people who've actually dealt with these situations. Thank you to everyone who shared their stories!

I'm glad this question got so many detailed responses! As someone who's been helping people navigate SSA benefits for years, I want to emphasize what others have said - the earnings test is very specific about what counts. Only "earned income" from active work counts toward the $22,320 limit. Your timeshare sale and 401k withdrawals are both considered "unearned income" and are completely exempt. The SSA Publication 05-10069 "How Work Affects Your Benefits" explains this clearly if you want the official source. You can sleep easy knowing you're well within the limits!