Divorced Retirees Claiming Social Security Benefits in 2026

Divorced individuals may be eligible for Social Security benefits based on an ex-spouse's work record, provided the marriage lasted a minimum of 10 years. If the ex-spouse has not applied for benefits, there is a two-year wait period post-divorce before the benefit can be claimed. The maximum spousal benefit can reach up to half of the ex-spouse's full retirement age benefit, which is 67 for most workers today. This option can be significant for those whose ex-spouses had higher earnings throughout their careers.