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The Daily Insight

Can you claim spousal benefits if spouse has not filed?

Author

John Thompson

Published Feb 22, 2026

You can collect benefits on the work record of an ex who has not yet filed for his or her own Social Security benefits if all of the following hold: You are both 62 or older. The marriage lasted at least 10 years. You’ve been divorced for at least two years.

Do retirees need to file quarterly taxes?

If you have substantial income from investments, taxable retirement plan withdrawals or other sources from which you do not have income tax withheld, you probably need to make quarterly estimated payments to avoid penalties and interest. However, if your income is low you may owe little to no federal income tax.

Who qualifies for spousal benefits?

You qualify for spousal benefits if: Your spouse is already collecting retirement benefits. You have been married for at least a year. You are at least 62 (unless you are caring for a child who is under 16 or disabled, in which case the age rule does not apply).

How old is Forbes article about retired husband?

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. This article is more than 6 years old. I was gathering up my things after a workshop for a major hospital when I looked up and saw a woman standing in front of me. She was not only invading my personal space, but she wasn’t happy.

Should I file Married Filing Jointly if my spouse didn’t work?

Should I file married filing jointly if my spouse didn’t work You should file as Married Filing Jointly, as it is the most beneficial filing status for married individuals. The fact that your spouse had no income will help you even more – your income will be reduced by joint standard deduction ($12,600) and by joint exemptions of $8,100.

Why does my husband not want to retire?

Partners who do not share their hopes or fears for this new life stage often have difficulty understanding the others’ actions or attitudes. For instance, a husband whose life had been wrapped around his work or forced into early retirement may be angry that he is not working.

What happens if my husband cashed out his retirement account?

What you bring to the marriage, you take out of it. If your husband had not cashed out his retirement account, a judge would likely award you half of whatever he had accumulated during your 36 years of marriage. The fact that it was in his name and he spent those funds may stand in your favor now that your husband has filed for divorce.