Hi, I started getting disability in 2010. My husband died, then I got Widow's Benefits. Now, I just turned 62 years old. I have not worked since age 33. However, prior to age 33 I did work 13 years. My question is this: Since I am getting Widow's Benefits can I get extra money now that I turned age 62? Thank you, Stormy

Hi Stormy,

I'm sorry for your loss.

If you're already receiving Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits, you would almost certainly not be due any additional benefits. SSDI is basically just the equivalent your full retirement benefit paid sooner because you have a disability. And, you can't receive both retirement and disability benefits for the same month.

Your disability benefits will convert to regular retirement benefits at the same rate when you reach full retirement age. At that time, your widow's benefit rate may increase somewhat since you were receiving disability benefits prior to starting widow's benefits. This is due to an arcane rule explained in this section of Social Security's operations manual: https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0300615350.

Best, Jerry