Ask Larry

Would I Be Eligible For Any SS Payment Now?

Ok my husband was on disability when he passed at 64. I have type 2 diabetic and I'm going to be 46 this month would I be able to any sos payment now?

Hi. I'm sorry for your loss. The only way that you could qualify for benefits from your husband's account prior to age 50 is if you have a child in your care who's eligible for benefits on your husband's account and if the child is either under age 16 or is disabled (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.04/handbook-0415.html).

If you don't have an eligible child in your care, then the earliest that you could qualify for widow's benefits is at age 60, or at age 50 if you're disabled. But, if you start collecting widow's benefits prior to your full retirement age (FRA) your benefit rate will be reduced for age (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.04/handbook-0401.html).

However, there is no minimum age to qualify for Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits based on your own earnings history. So, if you're unable to work due to your condition and if you've worked long enough to be insured for benefits then you may want to consider filing for SSDI benefits.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Aug 7 2022 - 2:09pm
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