Nearly half of Americans are surprised to learn that you can receive Social Security spousal benefits even if you’re no longer married. That’s right, you can still maximize your retirement income based on an ex-spouse’s work record. But you must meet specific criteria to qualify.

Discover if you’re eligible by following along in this week’s Money Wisdom Question Series with Heath Grossman, CFP®.

Criteria to Qualify

To qualify for Social Security spousal benefits based on an ex-spouse’s record, you must check all four boxes:

• You were married for at least 10 years and divorced for at least two years.
• You are currently unmarried.
• You are at least 62 years old.
• Your ex-spouse is eligible for Social Security retirement or disability benefits.

For the last rule, your ex-spouse must qualify for Social Security. They do not need to have filed or be collecting benefits yet.

How Much You Can Receive

At your full retirement age, you’re eligible to receive up to 50% of your ex-spouse’s benefit if their benefit is higher. This is not in addition to your own Social Security benefit based on your work record. You’ll get whichever benefit amount is higher, but not both.

Remember that claiming before your full retirement age permanently reduces your spousal benefit. However, waiting past full retirement age does not increase your benefit. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will lock in your benefit at the full retirement age amount.

Other Key Facts

If you’re debating whether to claim spousal benefits as a divorcee, consider a few important facts. First, your ex does not lose any benefits, and you can still qualify even if your ex has remarried. Additionally, the SSA will not contact or notify your ex-spouse that you are receiving part of their earnings record.

Whether you’re divorced, married, widowed, or single, it’s important to review your specific financial situation with an advisor before making any Social Security decisions.