Can SSDI convert to spousal benefits at FRA if divorced after 20+ year marriage?

The simple answer is that at full retirement age, your SSDI will automatically convert to regular retirement benefits at the same amount. But you do have options regarding spousal benefits, whether married or divorced. Since you've been married over 10 years (the minimum for divorced spouse benefits), you would qualify for spousal benefits in either scenario. At your FRA, you could receive up to 50% of your husband's PIA (Primary Insurance Amount) if that's higher than your own benefit amount. If you divorce, you can still claim on his record as long as: - The marriage lasted at least 10 years (you're well past this at 24 years) - You remain unmarried - Your ex-spouse is entitled to benefits (doesn't matter if he's claiming yet, just that he's eligible) One important note: if you're collecting spousal benefits while divorced, it doesn't affect your ex-husband's benefits or any benefits a new spouse might receive from his record.

went thru this exact thing last year... ssdi does NOT automatically convert to spousal benefits, u have to APPLY for them!!! but definitely worth it if ur ex made more $$$. i almost missed out on extra 400/mo bc nobody told me i had to apply. just make sure u wait till FRA or youll get a reduced amount

SSA rules around disability converting to retirement are SO CONFUSING!! When my SSDI converted last year they completely messed up my Medicare premiums and I ended up with THREE MONTHS of no checks while they sorted it out!!! Make sure you start calling them at least 3 months before your FRA date to make sure everything is set up right. The whole system is designed to confuse us and deny benefits we're entitled to. And good luck actually getting someone on the phone - I spent 6 HOURS on hold last time I called!

To clarify some of the information you've received: 1. Your SSDI will automatically convert to retirement benefits at exactly the same amount when you reach FRA. This happens automatically - you don't need to apply for this conversion. 2. Spousal benefits are separate and not automatic. When you reach FRA, you can apply for spousal benefits if they would be higher than your own benefit. SSA will pay you the higher of the two amounts (not both). 3. Regarding divorce: As long as your marriage lasted at least 10 years (yours is 24 years), you remain unmarried, and your ex-spouse is at least 62, you can claim divorced spouse benefits at your FRA. The amount would be up to 50% of your ex-spouse's PIA. 4. Important timing: Contact SSA 3-4 months before reaching FRA to discuss your options. This gives them time to process everything properly. The complexity comes from determining which benefit gives you the higher amount, not from the conversion process itself.

Has anyone considered how this might impact her Medicare??? I was on SSDI when I hit retirement age and nobody mentioned that my Medicare premiums would change how they were paid! I got a bill for $1,200 in back premiums because they weren't being automatically deducted anymore! The SSA is TERRIBLE at explaining these things!!!!

Thank you all for the helpful responses! It sounds like I need to: 1. Let my SSDI automatically convert at FRA 2. Apply separately for spousal benefits (whether married or divorced) 3. Contact SSA 3-4 months before reaching FRA to start this process 4. Watch out for any Medicare premium issues during the transition I feel much better having a plan now. I was so confused by the conflicting information I got from the SSA representatives. Does anyone know if there's a specific form I need to fill out to apply for the spousal benefits when the time comes?

one more thing!! if u do get divorced make SURE u get a copy of ur marriage certificate AND divorce decree. ssa made me go back and forth 3 times for more paperwork. total nightmare!!!