Mediate Michigan

There is a minimum amount of time you have to be married to claim someone else’s Social Security benefits.

“You have to be married at least 10 years,” says Michael Webb, Social Security spokesman for the Seattle region. “Nine years and 11 months doesn’t cut it. It’s got to be the full 10 years.

“If you meet the 10-year requirement, you can get up to 50% of the amount of Social Security benefits your ex receives. It does not reduce his or her benefits.

For most people, the marriage begins the day of the ceremony and ends when the divorce is finalized. If you live in a state that recognizes common-law marriages, however, you may be “considered married” as long as you were living together and you meet other requirements for that state. If most people thought you were married, you probably qualify. Common-law marriages are recognized in Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, New Hampshire, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah and Washington, D.C., although several states are starting to phase out common-law marriage rules.

via Social Security on ex’s record? – 1 – retirement & divorce – MSN Money.