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Can I Receive Benefits On My Husband's Disability Account?

I started receiving my ss benefits at age 62, I will be 65 in September. in January of 2016 my husband age 61 became disabled, his benefits start in August 2016. My question, am I able to receive any other benefits from SS as a result of his disability?

Hi,

Potentially yes, but only if his disability benefit amount is more than twice as much as your full retirement age benefit (PIA). Excess spousal benefits are computed by taking one-half of the worker's PIA, and subtracting the spouse's own PIA.

Your husband's disability benefit is equal to his PIA. Since you started your benefit at age 62, you are receiving about 25% less than your PIA. In order for you to be eligible for an excess spousal benefit on his account, his disability benefit would have to be more than double the amount you would have received if you had waited until full retirement age to start your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Jul 20 2016 - 2:45pm
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