CALIFORNIA — October 27, 2026. Divorcing does not necessarily end eligibility for Social Security benefits based on a former spouse’s earnings record. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has reminded Americans that certain divorced spouses may qualify for retirement or survivor payments.
Who may qualify for divorced-spouse benefits?
Generally, you must be at least 62, currently unmarried and have been married to your former spouse for at least 10 years. Your former spouse must be entitled to Social Security retirement or disability benefits, although special rules can allow a claim when the former spouse is eligible but has not yet applied and the divorce was finalized at least two years ago. Eligibility also depends on your own benefits and other federal requirements.
If you qualify for retirement benefits on your own record, Social Security does not simply pay two full benefits: it determines whether a higher amount is payable based on your former spouse’s record. Special restricted-application rules may apply to people born before January 2, 1954, who meet the relevant full-retirement-age conditions.
What if your former spouse has died?
Surviving divorced spouses may qualify for survivor benefits, generally starting at age 60, or 50 if disabled, subject to eligibility requirements and the marriage-duration rule. There are special rules for people caring for the deceased person’s qualifying child. Remarriage rules for survivor benefits differ from those for benefits based on a living former spouse; remarriage after age 60 (or age 50 if disabled) generally does not bar survivor benefits.
Benefits paid to a qualifying divorced spouse generally do not reduce amounts paid to the former spouse’s current spouse or other eligible family members. The exact amount depends on the individual’s circumstances and claiming age.
Where to get official help
Visit the SSA Family Benefits and Survivor Benefits pages. For an appointment or assistance, call 1-800-772-1213. Do not provide your Social Security number or bank details to unsolicited callers or unofficial websites.
Source: Social Security Administration blog, October 27, 2026: “Social Security Benefits for Divorced Spouses”. This California58 article is an independently written public-service summary, not an SSA announcement or individualized eligibility determination.
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