Ask Larry

Am I Eligible For Any Additional Benefits?

I my husband of 30 years died in 20022l

He W 20 years old er than me
Quit my. Job to take caRe of him..I.later w las SO DEPRESSED I.got disability ss. He died..I now have a 14 year.s/o.he has diavetid..Pad.can't do anything I do Everything. I am.so tired and have terrible back. I HURT ALL the time. I f. Eel I.should get some better benift OU r I have to go work HELP

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

I'd like to help you, but I don't have enough information about your circumstances. If your husband died and you are at least age 60, or at least age 50 and disabled, you may qualify for widow's benefits. If you're already receiving Social Security disability benefits and could qualify for a higher widow's rate, it would likely be advantageous to file as soon as possible even if you are below full retirement age and your widow's rate would be reduced. The widow's rate reduction (if any) would only be temporary if you already receive disability benefits, and your widow's rate would become unreduced when your disability benefits convert to retirement benefits at full retirement age (https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0300615350).

You also mention a 14 year old child, who may qualify for child's benefits on either your record or your husband's record. If you haven't already done so, you should check with Social Security to inquire about possible benefits for your child.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Apr 25 2017 - 2:53pm
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