What Benefits Can You Get When Your Husband Dies?
Life is unpredictable, and it's crucial to plan for the unexpected. One such scenario is the death of a spouse. If you're wondering what happens to Social Security Disability benefits when a husband dies, it's essential to understand the concept of survivor benefits. These benefits are available to the spouse, child, or parent of a deceased worker who has contributed enough to Social Security.
Earning Social Security Survivor Benefits
A worker can earn up to four credits each year, with one credit equating to $1,510 of wages or self-employment income in 2022. The number of credits needed for survivor benefits depends on the worker's age at the time of death. Younger individuals require fewer credits. In some cases, survivors can receive benefits if the worker had as few as six credits in the three years leading up to their death.
(What Benefits Can You Get When Your Husband Dies?)
Reporting a Death and Applying for Benefits
When a family member dies, it's crucial to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) as soon as possible. Most funeral homes will report the death for you, provided you give them the deceased person's Social Security number. To apply for benefits, you must call the SSA directly, as online applications are not accepted for survivor benefits.
One-Time Lump Sum Death Payment
A one-time lump sum death payment of $255 can be paid to the surviving spouse if certain conditions are met. If there is no surviving spouse, this payment is made to an eligible child.
Who is Eligible for Monthly Benefits?
Various family members may be eligible for monthly survivor benefits. These include:
- Widows or widowers aged 60 or older
- Disabled persons aged 50 or older
- Surviving divorced spouses under specific conditions
- Widows or widowers caring for a deceased child under 16 or with a disability
- Unmarried children under 18, or up to 19 if they are full-time students
Special Cases: Divorced Spouses and Dependent Parents
Divorced spouses can also be eligible for survivor benefits if the marriage lasted at least 10 years. Dependent parents aged 62 or older may qualify if they were financially dependent on the deceased child.
Calculating the Survivor Benefit Amount
The amount of survivor benefits varies based on several factors:
- A widow or widower at full retirement age receives 100% of the deceased worker's benefit.
- Those aged 60 to full retirement age receive between 71.5% and 99% of the benefit.
- Disabled individuals aged 50 to 59 get 71.5% of the benefit.
- A person caring for a child under 16 receives 75% of the benefit.
Maximum Family Amount and Special Lump Sum
There is a limit to the amount that family members can receive each month, generally between 150% and 180% of the deceased worker's basic benefit rate. In addition to monthly payments, a special lump sum death payment of $255 may be available under certain conditions. (What Benefits Can You Get When Your Husband Dies?)
Navigating the Complexities
Understanding Social Security survivor benefits can be complex, but it's crucial for financial planning. Each person's situation is unique, and it's advisable to consult with SSA representatives for personalized guidance.
Stay Informed
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to financial planning for life's uncertainties. Stay updated on the latest Social Security and survivor benefit changes to make informed decisions for you and your family.
Note: This article is based on the video "SURVIVOR BENEFITS: WHEN A HUSBAND DIES DOES THE WIFE GET HIS SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY" by How To Guys, uploaded on August 17, 2022.