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Social Security Q&A: How Is My Wife’s Spousal Benefit Determined if We’re Separated?

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Question: I had to take early retirement at age 62 for health reasons — regular Social Security, not disability. I currently receive $1,652 a month from Social Security. I am separated from my wife, who only worked briefly outside the home and so is not entitled to any Social Security benefits. How much can my wife receive by drawing on my Social Security account at age 62?

Answer: If you were married for 10 or more years, your ex-wife can receive a reduced spousal benefit starting at age 62 based on your work record. It will equal ​half of your full retirement benefit times a reduction factor of .70 if she was born between 1943 and 1954.

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