Question: how long do you have to be married to collect your ex-husband's social security?
Answer: Key Takeaways. Depending on eligibility, a divorced spouse may indeed be able to collect Social Security benefits through an ex if they were married for at least 10 years. If requirements are met, and if divorced and not remarried, a former spouse can claim 50% of an ex's benefits, or 100% if/when the ex passes away.