I'm new to this community but wanted to share what I learned when I was in a similar situation. The key thing to understand is that SSI disability and SSDI disability have completely different rules for spousal benefits. Since you're on SSI (not SSDI), you're treated more like a regular non-disabled person when it comes to spousal benefits - meaning you have to wait until 62. The good news is that even though your SSI will be reduced dollar-for-dollar (minus the $20 disregard), you'll likely still come out ahead financially. I'd recommend calling SSA and asking them to do a "what if" calculation for you so you know exactly what to expect at 62. Also, make sure to ask about any state supplements you might be eligible for - some states have programs that can help bridge the gap. Hang in there - two more years feels like forever when you're struggling, but you're almost there!

I'm sorry to hear about your difficult financial situation. As others have mentioned, you'll likely need to wait until age 62 to apply for divorced spouse benefits since you're receiving SSI rather than SSDI. However, I'd strongly encourage you to contact SSA directly to verify this, as there can sometimes be special circumstances that aren't immediately obvious. One thing that might help in the meantime - have you looked into whether you qualify for any other assistance programs? Things like SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid if you don't already have it, utility assistance programs, or local food banks can help stretch your SSI further. Many areas also have housing assistance programs specifically for disabled individuals that might help with that high rent burden you mentioned. Also, when you do reach 62 and apply, make sure to file your application the month you turn 62 (not before) to avoid any delays. The SSA representatives should be able to walk you through exactly how the benefit calculation will work with your SSI payments so you know what to expect financially.

if ur working anyway have u thought bout just waiting til FRA to collect? no earnings limit then and bigger checks.

Just wanted to add another perspective here - I went through something similar last year when I started benefits at 62. The key thing to remember is that SSA uses your GROSS monthly earnings, not net. So if your bonus includes any overtime, commission, or other earnings, make sure you're calculating based on the full amount. Also, if you do decide to ask your employer to delay the bonus to January, get it in writing so there's no confusion about when it was actually earned vs. when it was paid. SSA looks at when compensation is earned, not when you receive it. The monthly test for your first year really is strict - I learned that the hard way when I had an unexpected freelance payment in my second month of benefits.

To summarize for anyone else with similar questions: 1. For DIVORCED spouses: 10+ years of marriage is required to claim on ex's record 2. For CURRENT spouses: No minimum marriage length to claim spousal benefits 3. For SURVIVING spouses (if ex passed away): Only 9 months of marriage generally required The 7-year marriage in this case doesn't meet the requirement for divorced spouse benefits. Your ex-wife will need to qualify for Social Security based on her own work record or through another marriage.

As someone who went through a similar situation, I can confirm what others have said - the 10-year rule is absolutely firm for divorced spouse benefits. I was married 8.5 years and my ex cannot claim anything on my record. However, I'd suggest your ex-wife check her own work history with SSA to see what she might be eligible for on her own. Even if she didn't work much during your marriage, she may have earned enough credits before or after to qualify for her own benefits. She can create a my Social Security account online to check her earnings record and get benefit estimates. It's worth doing since that's likely her only path to Social Security retirement benefits.

Thank you all for the helpful responses! I think I understand my options better now. Since my own benefit at my FRA would be higher than the spousal benefit, I need to decide whether to take my reduced benefit now or wait until 67 for the full amount. I'm leaning toward waiting since the permanent reduction seems substantial, but I'll need to look at our overall financial situation. I'm definitely going to try to speak with someone at SSA directly before making my final decision.

I had to make this exact decision last year. The way I looked at it was: if I claim at 63, I'd get about 30% less forever. The break-even point where waiting until FRA pays off is usually around age 78-82 depending on your specific numbers. If you think you'll live past that age (and most women do!), waiting until at least FRA is usually better financially in the long run. I ended up claiming at 64 because I had some unexpected expenses, but I wish I could have waited longer. Definitely try to speak with SSA directly before deciding!

I went through this exact same situation 3 years ago and can definitely confirm what others have said - you absolutely CAN enroll in Medicare without starting Social Security benefits! One thing I'd add that hasn't been mentioned yet: when you apply for Medicare online, make sure you have your employer's EIN (tax ID number) handy. They'll ask for it on the application to verify your current coverage situation. Also, keep documentation of when your employer coverage actually ends - I had to provide a letter from HR stating my coverage end date. The timing sounds perfect for you - applying now for May 1st coverage gives you plenty of buffer time. I applied about 75 days before I needed coverage and everything went smoothly. And waiting until your FRA in September for SS benefits is absolutely the right financial move if you can swing it. One last tip: once you get your Medicare card, don't forget to notify any current healthcare providers about the insurance change so they can update their billing systems before your first appointments under Medicare.

I'm in a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm 65 and losing my employer coverage in June, but my FRA isn't until 67. Reading everyone's experiences has given me the confidence to move forward with Medicare-only enrollment. One question I haven't seen addressed - for those who did Medicare without SS benefits, how did you handle the Medicare premium payments? Did you set up automatic bank withdrawals, or do you just pay the quarterly bills when they arrive? I'm trying to plan out my budget for the transition period. Also, has anyone had experience with appealing IRMAA adjustments? My 2023 income was higher than what it will be in retirement, so I'm expecting to pay the higher premiums initially but hoping to get them reduced once I file the life-changing event form.