this you need a very experienced lawyer. Hi - sorry to hear you're in such a bad situation after so many years of marriage. I can relate to part of your story. I was married 30 yrs and it ended badly. I lost any inheritance that I had from my family in the sort out of things. Just have to suck it up. The part about the SS is interesting. Best way to think about things is that it is an equalization. After a long term marriage one person isn't suppose to live a far greater life style than the other person because the law recognizes that after so many years of marriage your lives, and bank accounts, have meshed into one. If you are the one in the marriage with more income then yes you will have to pay him SS. However, after a certain period (which your lawyer will advise) if his income should increase then it may switch to him paying you. This is doubtful as I'm sure if he inherits money it will be safely tucked away somewhere and not declared as income. Property, boat and toys get evaluated and split. Get yourself a good YOUNG lawyer - stay away from the older ones because they aren't as motivated as the newer ones (in my opinion). I received that advice from some older, retired judges that I knew from the golf club - probably the very best advice I received. A young lawyer in a small