Disabled Widow Benefits (DWB)
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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.
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Shalondra Grandberry Pickford
Shalondra Grandberry Pickford is the founding attorney and owner of Pickford Law. Her practice focuses on Social Security disability, Veterans’ disability and Car and Trucking accidents. Prior to founding Pickford Law, Shalondra worked as an Associate Attorney at Memphis’ most prominent Social Security disability firm. She later joined a personal injury firm where she oversaw the Social Security practice area and handled personal injury claims until hanging out her own…
Pamela Thomas
Pamela Thomas is the receptionist at Pickford Law and the newest addition to the team. With over five years of experience working at a boutique law firm, she brings a strong foundation of legal office knowledge, professionalism, and client care to her role.
As the first point of contact for the firm, Pamela plays a vital role in creating a welcoming and organized experience for every client. She manages incoming calls, greets clients, and ensures that all communications are directed efficiently to the appropriate team members.
Maria Flemati
Maria Flemati serves as the Intake Specialist at Pickford Law and has been a valued member of the firm for the past three years. As the first point of contact for many clients, Maria plays a vital role in creating a welcoming, supportive, and professional experience from the very first interaction.
Maria takes pride in guiding clients through the initial steps of the legal process, helping them feel comfortable, confident, and supported as they begin their journey with Pickford Law.
Alexiah Woods
Alexiah Woods is a rising legal professional and Personal Injury Case Manager at Pickford Law, where she plays an integral role in supporting clients and building strong personal injury cases. As a recent college graduate with aspirations of attending law school, Alexiah represents the next generation of legal advocates being developed within the firm.
In her role, Alexiah works closely with clients, medical providers, and insurance companies to ensure cases progress efficiently and effectively. She assists with gathering and organizing medical records and bills…
Ysabelle Mangubat
Ysabelle Mangubat serves as the Medical Records Clerk at Pickford Law, where she plays a critical role in supporting case development through the accurate collection and organization of medical documentation. She is currently a law student with aspirations of practicing corporate law and is actively building her legal foundation through hands-on experience at the firm.
In her role, Ysabelle is responsible for requesting, tracking, and organizing medical records and billing statements, ensuring that each file is complete, accurate, and ready for review.
Sharon Warren
Sharon Warren is a dedicated Case Manager at Pickford Law, where she focuses exclusively on Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI) cases. With over two years at the firm and more than 13 years of prior experience with the Social Security Administration, Sharon brings a depth of knowledge and practical insight that is invaluable to both the legal team and the clients she serves.
Carla Valente
Carla Valente serves as a Social Security Case Manager at Pickford Law, where she assists clients in navigating the Social Security disability process and supports the attorney in managing cases from start to finish. With a strong foundation in public service and over 17 years of experience with the Social Security Administration, Carla brings a depth of knowledge and insight that is invaluable to both clients and the firm.
During her tenure with the Social Security Administration, Carla served as a Technical Expert, providing guidance and support to local field offices.
Pearl Cummings
Pearline “Pearl” Cummings, also known as Lady P!, is an experienced Personal Injury Case Manager and Paralegal with more than 25 years of combined experience in the insurance and legal industries. Her background as a former Property Damage and Bodily Injury Claims Adjuster provides her with strong investigative insight and skilled negotiation abilities, helping attorneys and clients achieve successful claim resolutions.
