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I think with SSDI u can get divorced spouse benefits at ANY age not just retirement age. Normal retirement people have to wait till 62 but SSDI is different rules I think???
That's correct about survivor benefits. While a spousal benefit is 50% of the worker's benefit amount, a survivor benefit is up to 100% of what the worker was receiving (depending on when you claim it). The GPO still reduces it by 2/3 of your government pension, but since the starting amount is higher, you're more likely to receive some benefit.For example, if your husband's benefit is $2,450/month, the potential survivor benefit would be $2,450 (not $1,225 like the spousal benefit). With your $2,890 pension, the GPO reduction would be about $1,927, leaving you with roughly $523/month in survivor benefits after your husband passes.I'd recommend getting this calculation verified by SSA when the time comes, as benefit amounts will have changed by then due to COLAs.
I just thought of something important! When you apply, make sure to bring your marriage certificate AND divorce decree to prove you were married at least 10 years. They're super strict about this. My friend almost got denied because she couldn't find her divorce papers right away.
Just to clarify some misunderstandings I'm seeing in this thread: For survivor benefits, the rules are different than for regular retirement benefits. While it's true you can apply as early as 60, the benefit reduction formula is different. Also, if you remarry after age 60, you can still collect survivor benefits from your previous spouse. As for the original poster's situation, at age 70, you would receive 100% of your deceased husband's benefit amount IF it's higher than your current retirement benefit. You should request an appointment specifically for survivor benefits and ask them to do a complete benefits calculation to determine the best option for you. One more tip: if your husband had delayed retirement credits (meaning he worked past his full retirement age), those would be factored into your survivor benefit as well.
Yes, that's correct about remarriage after 60 for survivor benefits! It's different from spousal benefits (where remarriage at any age ends eligibility). For survivors, if you remarry after 60, you can still claim on your deceased spouse's record. Confusing, I know!
Ashley Adams
good luck!! let us know what happens ok??
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Avery Flores
•I will definitely update once I get this resolved. Thank you all for your help!
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Zoe Gonzalez
One more thing - if you used the Claimyr service someone mentioned and managed to speak with SSA, make sure you get the name and direct extension of anyone who helps you correctly understand your case. That way, if you need follow-up, you can try to reach the same person who already understands your situation. Also get everything in writing if possible!
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Avery Flores
•Great tip! I actually tried Claimyr today and got a call back within 40 minutes! The representative agreed this sounds like an error and has scheduled me for an appointment with a Claims Specialist next week. I made sure to get her name and employee ID number just in case.
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