Ask Larry

Can I Collect My Deceased Husband's Social Security?

I have a state retirement. Can I collect my deceased husband's social security. He was in military 20 years.

Hi,

I can't answer your question without a lot more information. You may qualify for widow's benefits if and when you meet all of the requirements for entitlement (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.04/handbook-0401.html), but if your wages were exempt from Social Security taxes on your state government job then your widow's benefits would likely be offset by 2/3rds of the amount of your state pension (https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10007.pdf).

Our maximization software should be able to help you determine whether or not you could receive widow's benefits, and if so your best strategy for claiming your benefits.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Mar 29 2018 - 6:46am
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