Disabled Widow Benefits (DWB)

Memphis Disabled Widow Benefits (DWB)

In the unfortunate case where a spouse passes away, their widow or widower could be entitled to recover Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. This is the case even if the surviving spouse is not eligible for these payments on their own.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides something known as disabled widow benefits to the surviving spouse of someone who would have qualified for SSDI. This assistance could be an invaluable resource for someone who suddenly lost their provider.

A skilled Memphis disabled widow benefits attorney could help you learn more about Memphis disabled widow benefits (DWB) during an initial conversation.

What Benefits are Available?

The payments available in Memphis to a surviving disabled widow or widower are less than the full value of assistance for most SSDI recipients. The amount is 71.5 percent of what the deceased spouse’s benefit would be had they lived and qualified for SSDI.

It goes without saying that the reduced assistance results in a reduction of the household earning compared to the income prior to their spouse’s death. While this decrease is notable, there are other options for surviving spouses to make ends meet. Often, a disabled widow or widower also qualifies for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits as well.

Qualifying for DWB in Memphis

There are numerous requirements a person in Memphis must meet in order to recover DWB.

Type of Disability

As the name suggests, these payments are only for disabled individuals who have lost their spouses. The SSA relies upon the same definition of disability for these benefits as it does for SSDI. In other words, a person is disabled if they have a condition that lasts longer than 12 months that prevents them from working or if they have a condition that is likely to be fatal.

Age and Relationship Status

There is also a specific age range requirement to qualify for these benefits. An applicant must be at least 50 years old and not yet have reached the age of 60 to qualify. There must also be a demonstrable relationship between the applicant and the deceased party. In addition to proving that the decedent is their spouse, the applicant must also prove that their spouse would have qualified for SSDI based on their prior work history.

Work History

SSDI is covered by payroll taxes. For that reason, eligibility for SSDI requires a minimum work history. If a person does not have enough work credits accumulated, they would not ordinarily be entitled to SSDI. With DWB, the applicant could receive payments if their deceased spouse had accumulated enough work credits to qualify.

The process of applying for these benefits can be complex. In addition to the application itself, there are also disability reports and other forms that must be completed. A well-versed Memphis SSDI lawyer could assist with every step of the process.

Contact an Attorney about a Memphis Disabled Widow Benefits Claim

If you are living with a disability following the death of your spouse, you might be entitled to SSDI benefits. These payments could provide you with the financial support you need in this difficult time. Let a seasoned benefits attorney advise you on recovering Memphis disabled widow benefits (DWB) right away. Contact us today to learn more about your options.