Full question: At age of 62 I start receiving my Social Security benefits under my work record (my ex- was not yet eligible, he was 61.5). Then at 71 can I switch to ex- and receive his, the full 50% SS benefits? (His benefits are 2.5 bigger than my. “Deemed filing” is NOT apply here. My DOB is: 12/1939, my ex- 06/1940. Married for 29 years, divorced, I never remarried.

Hi there,

If you were born in December 1939 then you must be turning 85 this year. However, it may still be possible for you to switch benefits if your ex-spousal benefit will be a higher amount than your retirement benefit.

Please note that comparing the benefits you are collecting with 50% of the benefits your ex is collecting, is not the correct calculation.

You would be eligible for up to 50% of his PIA, not the amount he is collecting.

We recommend that you contact your local SSA office for a phone of office meeting to determine what your options are.

Best of luck,
Martha

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