For spouses or former spouses of retirees post-October 1, 1985, the annuity reduces to what percentage upon reaching age 62?

For spouses or former spouses of retirees who began receiving benefits after October 1, 1985, the annuity is reduced to 35 percent upon reaching age 62. This reduction reflects regulations outlined by the Department of Defense that govern the payment of retired pay and survivor benefits in scenarios involving divorces or the separation of military members from service.

In essence, the purpose of this annuity reduction is to provide a structured financial outcome for individuals who have been married to retirees while balancing the financial obligations of the retiree’s benefits. The reduction specifically applies at age 62, which is often aligned with the eligibility age for other social security benefits, representing a standardized approach within military retirement and annuity guidelines. Thus, when these individuals reach 62, their share of the annuity is adjusted to 35 percent of the base amount for military pensions.