Social Security Disability Widows Benefits

Social Security Disability Widows Benefits is a program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are widowed and have a qualifying disability. These benefits are available to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability and who meet the eligibility criteria for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) through their deceased spouse's work record.

Our Social Security disability lawyers and representatives in Miami, Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, and Aventura can help you understand the eligibility requirements, application process, and how to navigate this often complex program.

The Social Security Disability Widows Benefits allow a widow or widower who is disabled to receive monthly payments based on their deceased spouse’s work record. These benefits are part of the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program and are designed to provide financial support if you are unable to work due to a disability.

The program works by providing monthly payments to eligible surviving spouses, allowing them to maintain some level of income after the death of their spouse. The benefit amount is based on the deceased spouse’s earnings record and the Social Security taxes they paid throughout their lifetime.

To qualify for Social Security Disability Widows Benefits, you must meet the following requirements:

Age and Marital Status:
 

• You must be at least 50 years old but under 60 at the time of your spouse's death.

• You must have been married to the deceased spouse for at least 9 months before their death, except in special cases like accidental death.

• If your spouse was receiving SSDI or retirement benefits at the time of death, you can qualify for widows benefits even if you are under 50.

Disability:
 

• You must have a disability that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means that your disability must prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

• If you are under 50 and applying for widows benefits due to disability, the SSA will use the same criteria for disability as they would for other SSDI applicants.

Work History of the Deceased Spouse:
 

• The deceased spouse must have worked and paid into Social Security for a sufficient number of years. The length of time the deceased worked will affect the amount of the benefit.

• If the deceased spouse had earned enough work credits, the surviving spouse may be eligible for benefits.

Residency and Citizenship:
 

• You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen.

• You must reside in the United States or the Northern Mariana Islands.

The amount of the Social Security Disability Widows Benefit is based on the deceased spouse's work history. The Social Security Administration calculates the benefit amount based on the earnings record of the deceased spouse.

Navigating the process of applying for Social Security Disability Widows Benefits can be complicated and time-consuming. Many applicants are initially denied, and the appeals process can be difficult to manage alone. Working with experienced Social Security disability attorneys in Miami, Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, and Aventura can help you avoid common pitfalls and improve your chances of success.

Our legal team can assist you in:
 

• Completing and filing the necessary paperwork

• Gathering the required documentation

• Representing you in the event of a denial or appeal

Get Help Today

If you are a surviving spouse and need assistance with applying for Social Security Disability Widows Benefits, our team of Social Security disability attorneys is here to help. We serve individuals in Miami, Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, and Aventura. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you navigate the process to secure the benefits you deserve