Do I need to provide divorce papers when applying for Social Security benefits?

It depends on which type of Social Security benefits you're applying for. If you're applying for retirement benefits based solely on your own work record, you typically don't need to provide divorce papers. However, if you're applying for benefits based on an ex-spouse's record, then yes, you would need to provide proof of marriage and divorce. Since you mentioned you're applying for your own benefits, you shouldn't need the divorce decree. The main documents you'll need are: - Your original birth certificate or other proof of birth - Your Social Security card or number - Your most recent W-2 forms or tax returns

when i applied last year they didnt ask me for any divorce stuff just my drivers license and birth certificate. took like 20 minutes online

They might ask for it even if you're claiming on your own record! My sister applied last year and they requested her divorce decree even though she wasn't claiming on her ex's record. Something about verifying her name change history. Better safe than sorry!

I went through this exact situation in January. You don't INITIALLY need the divorce decree when applying for your own retirement benefits. However, if there's anything in your earnings record that has different names (like if you used your married name for some years), they MIGHT request it later to verify your identity and name changes. If you can't find your divorce decree, you can get a certified copy from the court where your divorce was finalized. Most counties have a process for requesting these documents even if you're out of state now. It usually costs around $20-30 for a certified copy.

I SPENT THREE WEEKS trying to get through to Social Security about this exact question last year!!! Their phone system is HORRIBLE and I kept getting disconnected after waiting for hours. When I finally got someone, they told me I didn't need divorce papers for my own retirement benefits, but then when I applied online, the system flagged my application for review because of name discrepancies and I ended up having to provide the divorce decree anyway. The whole system is designed to make you give up!!!

my aunt just applied and she needed her divorce papers cause she changed her name back after the divorce. so it depends on your situation i think

what about if u want to claim on your ex's record? my friend makes more $ that way and shes trying to figure out if she needs permission from him or something

Social Security retirement specialist here. For clarification: 1. For your OWN retirement benefits: Divorce decree typically not required initially, but may be requested if there are name discrepancies in your earnings record 2. For EX-SPOUSE benefits: Divorce decree and marriage certificate are required, along with proof the marriage lasted at least 10 years 3. For SURVIVORS benefits (if ex-spouse died): Divorce decree, marriage certificate, and death certificate required If you don't have your divorce decree, contact the court in the county where your divorce was finalized. Most have procedures for obtaining certified copies even from out-of-state. Start this process early as it can take several weeks. Tip: When applying, have your SS card, birth certificate, and a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license) ready. If you've changed names multiple times, having documentation of all name changes is helpful.

One other thing to consider - if you're planning to file at 62, make sure you understand that your benefit will be permanently reduced by about 30% compared to waiting until your Full Retirement Age (which would be 67 if you're turning 62 now). Not trying to talk you out of it, just making sure you're aware of the reduction.

make sure u check if ur eligible for any other benefits too... my neighbor thought she could only get her own retirement but turns out she qualified for some of her ex husbands benefits too and gets an extra $300/month