I have been a widow for 11 years now. I will turn 58 this year. The place I work for is closing. I am going to have to file for unemployment. I might end up on disability for heart issues. someone suggested I look into collecting widows benefits is that possible at my age or do I have to wait until I tire 65?

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

Disabled widow's benefits can be paid as early as age 50, but unless you had eligible children and received child-in-care benefits after your husband's death you would need to have become disabled within 7 years of your husband's death in order to qualify for disabled widow's benefits. However, if you've been working and paying into Social Security then you may be able to qualify for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) on your own record (https://www.ssa.gov/disability/). And, you could potentially qualify for regular reduced widow's benefits as early as age 60.

Your best strategy for claiming benefits depends largely on your and your husband's relative benefit rates among other factors. You may want to consider using our maximization software to explore your options and determine your best strategy.

Best, Jerry