Can a widow collect SSI when husband dies?

Question

My friend's husband died and she was told she could not collect SSI until she is 65. They were married for over 20 years before he died.

My friend's husband died and when she went to the SS office they told her she could not collect any SSI until she was 65. They were married for more than 20 years before he died. Isn't she entitled to some of his SSI?

Answer 1

Depending on her age, your friend has to wait to receive benefits. Based on year of birth - here is a chart your friend can use to determine the exact age she must be to collect survivors benefits: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/survivorchartred.htm

Reduced benefits can be received at age 60.

For more information on survivors benefits, visit the social security website: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ww&os2.htm. You will find helpful information on eligibility, how life factors (working and collecting benefits, remarriage, divorce, etc.) affect receiving survivors benefits.

Sorry to hear about your friends loss.

Answer 2

I was informed by a friend that this is true that she has to wait until she is 65. In a situation with a family friend, she not only had to wait until she was 65 but she had to quit her job. I guess in some instances you can not have an income that is too high.
But just like someone suggested, check with the SSI website.
I hope your friend has other means because the government always likes to take your money but never knows how to give it back.

Answer 3

No. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program only for people with disabilities who qualify both medically and financially no matter what age. One cannot receive someone else's SSI. If your friend's husband was on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) based on his work history your friend will be eligible when she becomes retirement age and applies. She may also be eligible for SSDI under his work history if she becomes eligible for disability benefits according to the Social Security Administration before retirement age.

Answer 4

Social Security survivors benefits can be paid to:

A widow or widower -- full benefits at full retirement age, or reduced benefits as early as age 60
A disabled widow or widower -- as early as age 50
A widow or widower at any age if he or she takes care of the deceased's child who is under age 16 or disabled, and receiving Social Security benefits
Unmarried children under 18, or up to age 19 if they are attending high school full time. Under certain circumstances, benefits can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren, or adopted children.
Children at any age who were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled.
Dependent parents age 62 or older

Answer 5

Whew! I thought for a second you had something immediate in mind.