The $2,076 Monthly Benefit Most Divorced Women Over 62 Never Claim From Social Security

65-year-old women divorced after 10+ years can claim benefits based on their ex-spouse's earnings without consent. The divorced spousal benefit pays up to 50% of the ex's primary insurance amount, available at full retirement age (67 for those born in 1960 or later). In 2026, the maximum PIA is $4,152, yielding $2,076 monthly; claiming at 62 reduces this to about $1,453. Two details matter: divorced benefit does not reduce ex's payment, and ex-spouses aren't notified. If you had multiple marriages, you can claim from the highest earning record. For those born after 1953, restricted applications are no longer available; delaying benefits to 70 may outperform taking the spousal amount early.