Can I get Social Security survivor benefits at 58 after husband's death?

I'm sorry for your loss. Unfortunately, the standard minimum age for widow's benefits is 60 years old, with a few exceptions: 1. If you're disabled, you can qualify as early as age 50 2. If you're caring for your husband's child who is under 16 or disabled 3. If you have a disabled child of any age who received benefits on your husband's record Since you mentioned you're not disabled and didn't mention children, you likely won't qualify for survivor benefits until you reach 60. However, you should definitely keep that SSA appointment because you might be eligible for a one-time death benefit of $255, and they can confirm if there are any other programs you might qualify for based on your specific situation.

I was in ur EXACT situation 2 years ago!!!! lost my husband at 57 and couldnt get ANYTHING until 60!!!! its SO UNFAIR the way they treat widows!!!! i had to move in with my daughter because i coudlnt afford our house anymore. bring all his paperwork and death certificate to the appointment. at least you'll get the $255 death benefit which is a JOKE btw. barely covers funeral flowers!!!!!!

While the previous responses are correct about the age 60 requirement for widow's benefits (or 50 if disabled), I want to add that you should explore all options at your SSA appointment: 1. Ask about the lump-sum death payment ($255) 2. If your husband was receiving SSDI rather than retirement benefits, different rules might apply 3. Check if you qualify for any state-specific widow assistance programs 4. Discuss if your work history might qualify you for your own SSDI if you have any medical conditions Also important: when you do turn 60, remember that taking survivor benefits doesn't prevent you from switching to your own retirement benefit later if it would be higher. This strategy can maximize your lifetime benefits.

my mom went thru this when my dad died. she was 59 and had to wait till 60 for benifits. really tough year for her. she ended up getting a part time job at walmart just to get by. hang in there, that one year goes by faster than you think

I know this feeling all too well. When I lost my husband, I couldn't get through to Social Security for weeks. When I finally got an appointment, they told me I had to wait until 60 for survivor benefits. I was desperate. I finally discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) after a friend recommended it. They connected me to a Social Security agent in under 10 minutes instead of waiting on hold for hours. The agent walked me through all my options and helped me understand exactly what to expect at 60. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU Still had to wait until 60 for my survivor benefits, but at least I got clear answers and was able to plan accordingly. The peace of mind was worth it.

Hey there - Actually there IS one more exception nobody mentioned yet - if you're taking care of your deceased husband's parent who is at least 62 and who received at least half their support from your husband, you can get benefits before 60. Probably doesn't apply to you but thought I'd mention it just in case.

One additional important point: when you do turn 60, be aware that survivor benefits taken before your Full Retirement Age (FRA) are reduced. At exactly age 60, you'd receive about 71.5% of your husband's full benefit amount. Each month you wait between 60 and your FRA increases that percentage. Also, if you work while receiving early survivor benefits, the earnings limit applies ($21,240 for 2023, though this increases annually). Earning over the limit reduces your benefits temporarily (though you get the money back later after reaching FRA). Consider these factors when planning - sometimes waiting even a few months past 60 can make a financial difference.

i keep hearing SSA is RAISING the min age for survivor benefits to 61 or 62 soon!!!!! anyone else hear this??