The requirements for survivors’ benefits for widows and widowers with disabilities can be difficult – especially if you’re applying for it after losing a loved one. Once you qualify, it might be a financial lifeline that you do not want to lose.
However, life has a way of surprising us. Many find new love and happiness, leading to thoughts of remarriage. This can also lead to questions about their survivors’ benefits. In some cases, it doesn’t have to be a choice between one or the other.
Being 50 to 60 years old is a crucial factor
Remarriage can affect ongoing survivors’ benefits for widows and widowers with disabilities, but it largely depends on the age at which the person remarries. If they remarry before turning 50, they may lose their benefits.
However, if the remarriage occurs after they turn 50 but before 60, they can continue to receive survivors’ benefits if they have a disability at the time of remarriage. If it occurs at or after age 60, the new marriage typically does not affect their eligibility at all, regardless of whether they have a disability.
There are some exceptions and special circumstances to these rules:
- If the new marriage ends, whether it’s due to death, divorce or annulment, a person may become eligible again for survivors’ benefits from their previous marriage.
- If the new spouse also receives certain types of Social Security benefits, the remarried widow or widower might be eligible for benefits on the new spouse’s record.
- In some cases, if the new marriage occurs before a person turns 50 but ends, they might be able to reinstate their previous survivors’ benefits. However, this is not automatic and may require reapplication.
It’s crucial that you carefully consider the timing of remarriage and its potential impact. Every situation is different, and consulting with a legal professional can provide advice that best fits your needs.
Don’t let uncertainty cloud new beginnings
New beginnings often bring new questions. If you’re worried about how marriage or other major life changes might affect your Social Security benefits, know that legal help and guidance are available.