I lost my husband in April of 2015. I now collect his social security disability. I am able to sign up for his Social Security come April 20th of this year. 2018, I will be 60. My question is, will the Social Security disability stop? Or will I continue to receive both? Also was wondering about Widowers. Is there anything I should do in regards to that? Not sure what that all entails, if I should be getting that now, or if its even possible. Thanks so much.....

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

I assume that you mean you are currently drawing Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) on your own record, since you wouldn't be eligible for your husband's SSDI. If that's the case and if your husband's full retirement age rate (PIA) is higher than your SSDI, you could likely apply now for additional benefits as a disabled widow. In you're eligible, you would continue receiving your own SSDI plus 71.5% of the difference between your husband's PIA and your full SSDI rate. Furthermore, the 28.5% reduction initially assessed to your widow's rate would be removed after you reach your full retirement age, provided that your SSDI entitlement began before your entitlement to disabled widow's benefits.

You may want to consider using the maximization software available on this website to make sure that you choose the best possible filing strategy.

Best, Jerry