i would like to know if i would be getting benefits,from my wifes ssdi she was collecting when she died.i am also diabled and 53 years old.my ssdi was a higher amount than hers.if i am not able to collect on hers,what happens to her ss.

Hi,

First off, I'm very sorry for your loss.

Unfortunately, the answer to your question is no. If you are already receiving benefits on your own record that are higher than your wife's full rate, you wouldn't be eligible for any additional widower's benefits.

Social Security is social insurance. Social Security taxes go into a general trust fund that is paid out to other people who meet the requirements for entitlement. Unlike an IRA, or 401k plan, there is no individual account that belongs to the person who paid the taxes, nor is there any guarantee of a pay out. Some people get back much more than they paid in, while others pay in for years and never end up receiving anything in return.

Best, Jerry