Ask Larry

Survivor Benefits

Can I Still Get Benefits On My Late Husband's Record In The Future If I Draw Survivor Benefits Now?

Hi. I am 40 and currently receiving Survivor benefits for my 3 young children and I. Once the children age out, I understand the benefits will end. So, where does that leave me for retirement? Can I still get my late husband's retirement benefits at 65 or will I not receive them since I already collected due to his death and caring for our children. He was the sole provider for our family. Thank you!

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

Posted: 
Wednesday, December 20, 2017 - 07:00

Am I Now Eligible To Receive Survivor Benefits?

Hello, my husband passed away earlier this year. My two kids are approved to receive survivor's benefits but I was declined due to my income. I am about to be laid off from my job. Am I now eligible to receive survivor's benefits as his surviving spouse? And if so, would this be in lieu of unemployment insurance from the government?

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

Posted: 
Wednesday, December 13, 2017 - 07:16

Who Gets To Draw Benefits As A Surviving Spouse?

My Husband has married 2 women and we are still married if he dies who gets to draw on his SSI ?

Hi,

Potentially, both of you. A widow can be eligible for benefits based on a marriage lasting at least 9 months, whereas a divorced spouse must have been married to their deceased ex-spouse for a minimum of 10 years in order to qualify for surviving divorced spousal benefits. There is no limit on how many surviving divorced spouses may qualify for benefits on the same record as a widow.

Posted: 
Friday, November 10, 2017 - 11:26

Am I Entitled To Back Pay?

My son receives SS benefits stemming from his mother's death in 2012. I, the father, has to update information with the SS office and the representative told me that I was entitled to father's survivor benefits since I am the sole caregiver if NY son who is also disabled (autism). This information was never given to me in 2012 when I filled out the application for my son's SS benefits.

Posted: 
Thursday, October 26, 2017 - 09:37

Can You Help Me Understand My Options?

My husband passed away last year.. I collect benefits for our 2 children but its still hard to make ends meet.. I was told i could also collect benefits if i file for them even though its been a year.. Is this true? .... And I also was told that if i do recieve benefits only thing they will do is take the money i get now and just split it into 3 they wont add extra money for me.. Please help me understand.

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

Posted: 
Wednesday, October 18, 2017 - 06:26

Right Or Wrong?

From my deceased ex-husband, I've received $1289 monthly for ~3 years from his regular SS benefit. I was 69 in June, still working part time, and plan to retire @ age 70 June 2018 as the MRD kicks-in. My SS benefit should be ~$3100. Assume his $1289 will cease, right, or wrong? Thanks.

Hi,

Right. You'll only be able to receive the higher of your own benefit rate or your survivor rate.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Monday, October 16, 2017 - 08:28

Can I Collect My Spouse's SSI If She Dies?

My partner (gaycouple) & I will be married this year. She will be 51yrs.old this year & collecting SSI Disability she doesn't have much time. I'm 38yrs.old can I collect her SSI & at what age? Can I still work?

Hi,

If your spouse is drawing SSI (Supplemental Security Income), then the answer is no. SSI is a needs based benefit with no auxiliary or survivor benefits involved.

Posted: 
Friday, October 6, 2017 - 07:08
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