I'm 55 years old can I collect my husband's Social Security benefits if he's passed away

Hi. You couldn't collect your husband's actual benefits, but you may be able to qualify for widow's benefits in the event of his death. However, the only way that you could qualify for widow's benefits prior to age 60 is if you're disabled, or if you have a child in your care who qualifies for child benefits on your husband's account and if the child is either under age 16 or is disabled.

Widow's benefits can amount to as much as your deceased spouse's full benefit rate, but if you start drawing widow's benefits prior to your full retirement age (FRA) your benefit rate would be reduced for age. Also, you can't be paid both your own Social Security benefits and a full widow's benefit simultaneously. The most that you could be paid is the higher of the two benefit amounts.

Best, Jerry