Can a widow or widower get benefits off of the spouses record?
When a worker entitled to Social Security benefits dies, the surviving spouse, age 60 or older, may qualify for survivor benefits. A surviving spouse, age 50 or older, may qualify only if disabled. To be entitled to a widow’s or widower’s benefit as a disabled widow or widower, the law provides that you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than twelve months. The impairments must be of a level of severity to prevent a person from doing any gainful activity. There are other benefits which may be available to the surviving spouse and dependent children. To get help with these types of benefits, contact the Administration at 1-800-772-1213. You might need an attorney’s help with benefits, especially if they involve the issue of disability. If you live in North or South Carolina, you can call our firm at 1-800-775-3985 or click here to e-mail us.
Related Questions
- My spouse passed away and now I must file as single instead of married. Because a widow or widower still maintains the home, wouldn that be considered head of household for tax purposes?
- Can I receive reduced retirement benefits at age 62 under my record then at full retirement age receive full spouses benefits?
- Can a widow or widower get benefits off of the spouses record?
