Can I claim my late husband's Social Security benefits as a widow when I've been collecting my own since 62?

I'm very sorry for your loss. Yes, as a widow, you're absolutely entitled to your husband's full benefit amount, and in your situation, you should definitely apply for survivor benefits right away. Since you're past your full retirement age (which would be 66 for your birth year), you qualify for 100% of what your husband was receiving. The good news is that Social Security will automatically give you the higher of the two benefits - you don't receive both. In your case, you'd stop receiving your $1,650 and start receiving the approximately $3,275 your husband was getting. You should contact Social Security promptly as survivor benefits are not always automatic, and they're only retroactive for up to six months.

when my husban died i got his check insted of mine cus it was bigger. u hafta take his death certifcat to ss office. they dont do it automaticly u gotta apply

The Social Security Administration is TERRIBLE about telling people about survivor benefits!!! I was in your EXACT situation when my husband died and NO ONE from SSA contacted me to let me know I could get his higher amount!!! I found out SIX MONTHS later from a friend and lost out on thousands of dollars because they only backdate six months!!!! Make an appointment IMMEDIATELY!!!!

Yes, you're entitled to widow's benefits based on your husband's Social Security record. Since you're over your full retirement age (which would be 66 for someone born around 1952), you're eligible to receive 100% of your husband's benefit amount. Here's how it works: You won't receive both benefits added together. Instead, SSA will pay the higher of the two amounts. In your case, you'd receive your husband's higher benefit of approximately $3,275 instead of your current $1,650. You need to apply for these survivor benefits - they aren't automatic. Bring your husband's death certificate, your marriage certificate, both your Social Security numbers, and your banking information for direct deposit. If you have his most recent tax return, that can be helpful too. One important note: Survivor benefits can only be paid retroactively for up to six months from your application date, so it's best to apply as soon as possible.

Something similar happened with my parents. Mom got widows benefits after dad died. Wish someone would simplify all these SS rules! Good luck

does anyone know if theres a difrence if ur husband was on disabilty first like hers was?? my brother is on disability and his wife is worried about this too

I wanted to update everyone - I was able to schedule an appointment with SSA and yes, I am eligible for my husband's higher benefit amount! They're processing the change now and said I'll receive my first payment at the higher amount next month. Thank you all for your help and encouragement during this difficult time. I would have had no idea about this if I hadn't asked here.