Disabled Widows Benefits
Many people know that they may be eligible to draw benefits off of their deceased spouse’s work record once they reach retirement age, but there is another type of benefit widows and widowers (and divorced widows and widowers) can draw if they are disabled. Here are the basics:
1. You are 50 to 59 years old and meet the definition of disability;
2. Your deceased spouse has paid enough Social Security taxes for coverage; and
3. You became disabled within 7 years of your spouse’s death OR within 7 years of when you last received a Social Security check for caring for a child who is under 16 years old (see POMS DI 11005.050).
If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible to receive a monthly check and be eligible for Medicare, even if you have never worked. If you think you may be eligible for Disabled Widows Benefits, give our experienced disability attorneys at Gardberg & Kemmerly, P.C. a call today at 251-343-1111 to discuss your case.
