If you are married to someone who receives Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you may wonder if you are eligible for spousal benefits. SSDI provides crucial financial support to disabled individuals who are unable to work due to a long-term disability. In some cases, the recipient’s spouse can also get benefits.
How Do Spousal Benefits Work for SSDI?
SSDI spousal benefits provide extra financial support to spouses of disabled individuals who qualify for SSDI. To qualify for spousal benefits, you must be married to the disabled person and be at least 62 years old. You can also be married to a disabled person while caring for their child under 16 or has a disability.
Several factors, including your age and your spouse’s benefit amount, determine the amount of your spousal benefit. If you have reached full retirement age (which varies depending on the year you were born), you can receive up to 50% of your spouse’s SSDI benefit.
What Are the Benefits for the Wife of a Disabled Husband?
If your husband becomes disabled and qualifies for SSDI, you could be eligible for spousal benefits as his wife. To qualify, you must meet specific age and relationship requirements. Specifically, you must be at least 62 years old or caring for your spouse’s child under 16 or a disabled child who receives SSDI benefits on your husband’s record.
As a wife, you can receive up to 50% of your husband’s SSDI benefit at full retirement age. If your husband receives $2,000 monthly in SSDI, you may be eligible for up to $1,000 in spousal benefits. If you are caring for a qualifying child, you can receive spousal benefits regardless of your age.
You will receive a higher amount if you qualify for benefits based on your work record. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates your benefit based on your work history and compares it to your spousal benefit.
Can My Wife Get Half of My Social Security Disability?
If you receive SSDI, your wife may qualify for spousal benefits up to 50% of your amount. This applies if she reaches full retirement age and doesn’t qualify for a higher benefit based on her own work record.
Understanding that spousal benefits do not reduce your SSDI benefit is essential. Your wife receives her benefit in addition to yours, and it does not reduce the amount you receive. If you receive $1,800 per month in SSDI benefits and your wife qualifies for a spousal benefit of $900 per month, your total household income from SSDI would be $2,700 per month.
Social Security Disability Spousal Benefits Calculator
However, it’s important to remember that the calculator only provides an estimate. Your benefit may differ based on your specific circumstances. Furthermore, factors such as your work history, the age at which you claim benefits, and your spouse’s benefit amount can all impact your final spousal benefit.
Contact Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada, P.C.
Understanding the complexities of SSDI spousal benefits can be challenging, but Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada, P.C. is here to help. Our experienced New York Social Security disability attorneys have been assisting New Yorkers for over 40 years. We deeply understand the eligibility requirements, application process, and strategies for maximizing your benefits.
If you believe you qualify for SSDI spousal benefits, don’t hesitate to contact Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada, P.C. today at 516-496-0400 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation. Our knowledgeable attorneys will review your case, answer your questions, and guide you through applying for the spousal benefits you deserve.
At Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada, P.C., we recognize the financial challenges that come with a disability and are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized service to each client. Let us put our expertise to work for you and help you navigate the complex world of SSDI spousal benefits. With our support and guidance, you can know that you are taking the right steps to secure the financial support you need during this difficult time.