Hello, my husband passed while waiting on the heart transplant list. He had SSDI so I should be able to receive survivors benefits for my Autistic son who also receives SSI. But is it beneficial if he applies for his own SSDI as well? As my husband is the one who handled this information I am in over my head and hoping I can find some answers. Thank you for your time.

Hi. I'm sorry for your loss. As long as your son is either under age 18 or disabled from a condition that started prior to age 22, he should be able to qualify for survivor benefits. And, depending on your age, you may also be able to qualify for survivor benefits either as a widow or as a mother with a child in care. Social Security also pays a one-time $255 death benefit to surviving spouses who were living together with their deceased spouse (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/survivors/.)

If your son was already receiving Social Security child benefits based on your husband's Social Security disability (SSDI) entitlement, then his child benefits should automatically convert to survivor benefits. Otherwise, he'll need to file an application with Social Security. And, unless you've previously applied for child in care spousal benefits you'd need to file an application if you want to claim survivor benefits. You can apply for benefits or make an appointment to do so by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213 or by visiting a Social Security office.

Best, Jerry