Quote Originally Posted by Freeebird View Post
Okay, I finally gave up and consulted a professional who filled me in on all the details. In short, this spousal benefit deal is geared toward those who have little or no benefit based on their own work record. He confirmed that the SSA site does a lousy job explaining this scenario, and the ex's numbers would indeed have to be double mine before I would realize any benefit. Given she's five years younger and still working, hopefully she will continue to get some nice pay increases to where her numbers will in fact be more than double mine by the time she files for benefits.

All that said, I will officially "retire" tomorrow, given the SSA office closes at 1 on Wednesdays. Then it will be more days like any other day until I start getting money FROM the government for a change.
Congratulations. Future generations may not see the return on investment. I hope to get at least a few years worth.