Can I Claim My Ex’s Benefit If They Are Still Working?

Person smiling, holding a coffee cup outdoors.

Confused by Social Security?

You are 66. Your ex is 66 and still working. Can you claim? Yes.

The “Working Ex” Loophole

Because you are divorced 2+ years, the SSA treats you differently than a married spouse. You can file for divorced-spouse benefits NOW. His earnings do not penalize YOUR check.

Confused by the divorce rules?

We clarify exactly what you can claim and when.

Book Your Strategy Session →

Why This Matters

This allows divorced spouses to access cash flow much earlier.

Claim what you’re owed.

Check your ex-spousal eligibility.

Schedule Your Session →

About Author

Person smiling, holding a coffee cup outdoors.

Ray R. Harris

Ray R. Harris, RSSA®, partners with tax and legal professionals to provide specialized Social Security claiming analysis for high-net-worth clients aged 58–70. A former executive with an MBA and background in Finance, Ray mitigates liability for his partners by ensuring their clients optimize spousal benefits, tax efficiency, and lifetime income.

Related Articles

Q3 Strategy Review: Preparing for Year-End Distributions

It’s Q4. Time to land the plane for 2026. 1. RMD Check 2. QCD Strategy 3. Capital Gains Harvesting Finish 2026 strong. Let’s review your year-end checklist. Book Your Strategy Session → Conclusion A smooth December starts in September. Prepare for year-end. Schedule your review. Schedule Your Session →

Read More...

The “Tax Bumps”: Why Your Marginal Rate Might Be 40% (Not 22%)

Because of how Social Security becomes taxable, earning $1 extra might cost you $0.40 or more in tax. This is the Tax Bump. The Multiplier Effect Extra income triggers tax on itself AND makes more Social Security taxable. Don’t pay 40% tax by accident. We map your Tax Bumps to optimize withdrawals. Book Your Session…

Read More...

The “Survivor’s Checklist”: 5 Steps to Take Immediately After a Spouse Passes

When a spouse passes, take these steps to protect income. 1. Notify Social Security 2. Do NOT Cash the Deceased Check 3. Apply for the $255 Death Benefit 4. File for Survivor Benefits 5. Review Tax Withholding Recently widowed? We can handle the strategy analysis so you can focus on healing. Book a Strategy Session…

Read More...