What Documents Will You Need To Apply For Social Security’s Spousal or Divorced Benefits?

Applying for and getting spousal benefits is a terrific way to increase your monthly Social Security payout, sometimes by an addition of up to $800. Even if you never worked, you might be eligible for Social Security benefits if you’re at least 62 years old and your spouse/ex-spouse has previously claimed retirement benefits.

If you’re within three months of your 62nd birthday or older, you can apply online or by calling the national toll-free line at 1-800-772-1213. You can also go to your nearest Social Security office. Although an appointment is not required, calling ahead and requesting one may lessen the time spent waiting to apply.

You’ll need the following documents to apply:

• Birth certificate or other proof of birth,
• Those who weren’t born in the U.S. must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal alien status,
• Those who served in the military before 1968 should have a copy of their discharge papers,
• W-2 forms and/or self-employment tax returns from the previous year,
• Final divorce decree, in case you’re applying as a divorced spouse.

Certificate of Marriage

It’s worth noting that the SSA will accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns, or medical records but will only accept original copies of most other documents, such as your birth and marriage certificates. Make sure you get the original documents back.

Even if you don’t have all of the documentation specified above, the SSA still recommends applying. They could be able to assist you in obtaining any missing documentation.

You’ll also be asked for personal information like the number and ages of your children, military status, citizenship status, and employment history, among other things.

Even if you’re divorced, you can qualify for spousal benefits. If you’re divorced, it’s a requirement that your marriage lasted ten years or longer for you to be eligible for benefits through your former spouse’s work record. You also cannot be remarried since you would have to file for benefits under your new spouse. You’re entitled to benefits via your ex-spouse if the benefit you’re entitled to through your job is less than the benefit you would receive through your ex-spouse.

Contact Information:
Email: rick@andrikfinancial.com
Phone: 9568933225

Bio:
Rick Viader is a Federal Retirement Consultant that uses proven strategies to help federal employees achieve their financial goals and make sure they receive all the benefits they worked so hard to achieve.

In helping federal employees, Rick has seen the need to offer retirement plan coaching where Human Resources departments either could not or were not able to assist. For almost 14 years, Rick has specialized in using federal government benefits and retirement systems to maximize retirement incomes.

His goals are to guide federal employees to achieve their financial goals while maximizing their retirement incomes.