Don't forget that if you're still working while collecting survivor benefits before FRA, you'll be subject to the earnings test! They'll deduct $1 for every $2 you earn above $22,320 (for 2025). I learned this the HARD WAY and had to pay back thousands!!! Make sure you understand ALL the rules before making any decisions!

Just wanted to add - when you do apply for survivor benefits, bring every document you can think of: marriage certificate, his death certificate, his social security number, birth certificates, etc. I made the mistake of not bringing everything and had to make another appointment. Also request an appointment rather than just showing up at your local office.

I was in a similar situation last year. Divorced after 22 years, started my own SS at 66. Found out my ex was a high earner so I applied for divorced spouse benefits. Took FOREVER to process (about 3 months) but I ended up getting an additional $320/month because half of his benefit was higher than my full benefit. Definitely worth checking into!! They did ask for my marriage certificate and divorce decree, so tell your friend to have those ready.

To answer your follow-up question: No, she doesn't need his SSN to apply. The SSA can locate his record with his name, date of birth, and place of birth. She should bring her own identification, her Social Security card, birth certificate, marriage certificate, and divorce decree to prove she meets the requirements. Also, to clear up some confusion in this thread: If she's entitled to both her own retirement and a divorced spouse benefit, she'll receive her own benefit plus the difference if the divorced spouse benefit is higher. So if her own benefit is $1000 and 50% of his is $1400, she would receive $1400 total (not $2400). But if her own benefit is $1500 and 50% of his is $1400, she would just continue to receive her $1500.

I just realized nobody asked - does the wife have children under 16? If your friend and his wife had kids who are still minors, she could potentially receive benefits as a mother caring for his children, even after divorce. This doesn't have the 10-year marriage requirement. But since you mentioned they don't have kids together, this wouldn't apply.

Has your friend talked to a divorce attorney who specializes in situations involving disability benefits? My neighbor went through something similar and said her lawyer gave her better advice than SSA did because he understood both the SS rules AND how they interact with divorce law in our state. Might be worth the consultation fee.

my frend worked for school district 26 yrs now gets $0 from husbands SS even tho he paid in 45 yrs! system is rigged against teachers

One final suggestion - even though your calculation shows $0 benefit, it might still be worth calling SSA to verify your specific situation. There are occasionally special circumstances or provisions that might apply in individual cases. For instance, if you had any substantial earnings under Social Security yourself (not just your teacher's pension), the calculation becomes more complex and potentially more favorable. Also, having the calculation officially done can help with future planning, especially regarding survivor benefits should your spouse pass away before you (survivor benefits are also subject to GPO, but the calculation is different). Keep in mind that when you do call, try to speak with someone who specifically understands GPO/WEP provisions, as not all representatives are equally familiar with these complex rules.

doesn't matter when you file, your husband probably gets $0 either way because of GPO. my dad's friend went through this and got nothing from his wife's SS.

Thank you all for the helpful information! I've decided to stick with my plan to file at 70 to maximize my benefit. Even though my husband probably won't get spousal benefits due to GPO, the survivor benefit possibility makes it worthwhile. Going to schedule an appointment with SSA to get exact calculations for our situation. Appreciate all the responses!