Can I switch to ex-spouse survivor benefits after claiming my own Social Security at 70?

Yes, you absolutely can switch to survivor benefits if your ex-husband passes away! This is one of the few situations where you can actually switch from one benefit to another. Since you were married for over 10 years (the minimum requirement is only 10 years) and haven't remarried, you would qualify for survivor benefits based on his record. The good news is that survivor benefits are generally 100% of what the deceased was receiving (unlike spousal benefits which are only 50%). So if his benefit amount is higher than yours, it would definitely be worth switching. Just make sure to notify SSA promptly when he passes, as survivor benefits aren't automatically applied.

my mom did this exact thing! she got her own SS at 66 (her FRA) and when my dad died 3 years later she switched to his benefit which was like $600 more per month. u just have to call them right away when it happens, they dont automatically know or switch u over

I've been researching this topic A LOT because I'm in a similar situation. Everything I've read confirms what the first response said - yes you can definitely switch to survivor benefits from an ex-spouse as long as you were married 10+ years and haven't remarried before age 60. And you're smart to take your own benefits at 70 to maximize them! That's called a "maximize and switch" strategy and it works well for people in our situation. One thing to keep in mind though - the survivor benefit wouldn't be his age 70 amount if he hasn't claimed yet. It would be based on what he was receiving when he died, or if he hadn't claimed yet, it would be based on his benefit at his full retirement age.

THE SSA MAKES THESE RULES SO CONFUSING ON PURPOSE!!! I went through this exact situation and let me tell you - when the time comes to switch to survivor benefits be prepared for a NIGHTMARE!! I had to call 15+ TIMES because they kept giving me wrong information. One agent told me I couldn't get my ex's benefits at all, another said I could get 50% (which is WRONG - that's for spousal not survivor), and another told me I needed to apply in person which wasn't true either!!! The survivor benefit is 100% of what your ex was receiving IF you're at full retirement age or older when you apply for the survivor benefit. If he wasn't claiming yet, it's more complicated. Don't trust what the first agent tells you - always get a second opinion!!

have you checked what your benefit will be at 70? and do you know what your ex is getting? might not even be worth worrying about if yours ends up higher

You've received some good information already, but I'll add a few technical points that might help: 1. Since you're claiming your own retirement benefit at 70, you'll receive all delayed retirement credits (DRCs), maximizing your benefit. 2. If your ex-spouse predeceases you, you can indeed switch to survivor benefits if they're higher. These are officially called "Surviving Divorced Spouse Benefits" in SSA terminology. 3. There's no reduction in survivor benefits if you claim them after your Full Retirement Age (FRA). 4. When applying for survivor benefits, you'll need: death certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, your birth certificate, and possibly your ex's Social Security number. 5. Importantly, survivor benefits don't affect any benefits others may receive on your ex's record (like if he remarried). Your strategy of maximizing your own benefit at 70 and then potentially switching to survivor benefits is optimal for your situation.

I tried calling the SSA about a similar question last month and got disconnected 3 times after waiting on hold forever. So frustrating!!! Good luck getting through to anyone who can actually help.

One more important thing that no one has mentioned yet - when your ex passes away, you only have a limited time to apply for the survivor benefits retroactively. I believe it's currently 6 months. So don't delay in applying once that unfortunate event occurs, or you could lose out on some months of the higher benefit amount.

random but does anyone know if the OP would get the ex-husbands COLA increases too when on his survivor benefits? or just the fixed amount from when he died?

This is such valuable information! I'm actually in a very similar situation - divorced after 22 years, currently 68 and planning to wait until 70 to claim my benefits. Reading through all these responses has really helped clarify the process. It's reassuring to know that the "maximize and switch" strategy is a legitimate approach and that survivor benefits maintain COLA adjustments. I'll definitely bookmark this thread and keep those required documents handy. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and expertise!

This is such great information! I'm actually dealing with a similar situation right now - divorced after 18 years, currently 67 and considering my claiming strategy. One thing I'd add is that you might want to consider contacting SSA about 3 months before you turn 70 to start the application process for your own benefits. That way everything is ready to go and you won't have any delays in receiving your first payment. Also, if you're still working, make sure you understand how the earnings test might affect your benefits if you claim before your full retirement age (though at 70 this won't be an issue for you). It's so helpful to see real examples of people who've successfully navigated this process!

I've been following this discussion with great interest as someone who works with Social Security cases regularly. Just wanted to add a few practical tips that might help when the time comes: 1. Keep a copy of your ex-husband's Social Security number handy - SSA will need it when you apply for survivor benefits. 2. If your ex remarried, don't worry - his new spouse's benefits won't affect your eligibility for survivor benefits as a divorced spouse. 3. Consider setting up periodic check-ins with SSA (maybe annually) after you start your own benefits to verify your ex's status and ensure you're aware of any changes that might affect potential survivor benefits. 4. The SSA has a specific form (SSA-10) for survivor benefits - you can download it from their website ahead of time to see what information you'll need. Your plan to maximize at 70 and then potentially switch is exactly what I'd recommend for someone in your situation. The $550 monthly difference you mentioned would add up to significant money over time!

I just wanted to thank everyone who contributed to this discussion - the information shared here is incredibly valuable! As someone who's been navigating Social Security planning for my own family, I can attest to how confusing these rules can be, especially when dealing with divorced spouse benefits. One additional resource that might be helpful is the SSA's Publication 05-10084 "Benefits For Your Divorced Spouse" which explains these rules in detail. You can find it on their website under publications. Also, many local libraries have AARP tax preparation volunteers during tax season who are often well-versed in Social Security questions and can provide free guidance. The strategy discussed here really highlights the importance of understanding all your options before making claiming decisions. It's great to see a community where people share real experiences and practical advice!