Social Security spousal benefits vs my own record at FRA - can I see both amounts online?

The online application won't show you both amounts before you submit. You need to talk to someone. I was in similar situation last year and ended up calling the 800 number after trying online first. Had to wait forever but finally got through.

To clarify some important points: The online application process won't show you a comparison of benefits on your record versus ex-spouse benefits before finalizing. You'll want to contact SSA directly to get this information. Regarding your ex taking benefits at 62: This does NOT reduce your potential spousal benefit. Your benefit as an ex-spouse is based on your ex's Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) at their full retirement age, regardless of when they actually claimed. Since you're already at FRA, you'd be eligible for the maximum spousal benefit (50% of their PIA) if that exceeds your own benefit. SSA will automatically give you whichever is higher when you apply - your own benefit or the spousal benefit - but they won't necessarily calculate both unless you specifically inquire about it.

The online system is really limited for comparative benefits. I faced this exact situation in 2024 and found a workaround. First, create a my Social Security account if you haven't already. Check your own estimated benefit there. Then, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 specifically asking for the amount you'd receive from your ex-spouse's record. Bring a notepad and write down BOTH amounts. They won't tell you which to choose - that's your decision. But once you have both numbers, you can make an informed choice. Just know you might wait 1-2 hours on hold these days. I had to call three times before getting through.

Not sure why everyone's saying you need to jump through hoops. Just go to your local SSA office and talk to someone. That's what I did. Made an appointment, went in, they showed me all my options right there on the spot. Just bring your marriage certificate and divorce decree. Much easier than spending hours on the phone!!!!

I've been through this nightmare!!! The online application WILL NOT give you comparisons and the 800 number is a complete joke - I spent DAYS trying to get through last month. Just kept getting disconnected or waiting for hours. The system is BROKEN. I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual human at SSA. They called me back with a representative on the line within about 30 minutes. Cost money but saved me literal days of frustration. You can see a video of how it works here: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU Once I got through, I was able to get both benefit amounts and make my decision. Turns out I qualified for more on my ex's record than my own, so definitely worth checking both!

my neighbor said if ur ex remarried you cant get their benefits but if you remarry after 60 you can still get them??? is that right?? so confusing!!

The online application process won't show you comparative amounts before filing. To make an informed decision, you need to consult with SSA directly. If you're at FRA, you have a unique advantage - you can actually file a "restricted application" for just your ex-spouse benefits while letting your own benefits continue to grow (if you were born before January 2, 1954). This strategy can significantly increase your lifetime benefits. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your local office and specifically asking about this strategy. Many SSA representatives aren't familiar with this option unless you specifically inquire about it. Bring your marriage certificate, divorce decree, and any other relevant documentation.

Just to add to all this - when you DO talk to someone, make sure to ask about cost of living adjustments too. My ex took benefits early so his base amount was lower, but after all the COLAs over the years, it ended up being more than expected. They should factor that in when giving you estimates but sometimes they forget to mention it.