Can my divorced disabled mother receive survivor benefits if ex-husband dies before her? SS benefit calculation help

Yes, your mother would likely qualify for divorced widow's benefits if your father passes away first. Since they were married for more than 10 years (34 years is well above the minimum), and she hasn't remarried, she meets the basic eligibility requirements. The calculation gets a bit complex, but generally she would receive the higher of either her own SSDI benefit or up to 100% of your father's benefit amount. Since his benefit is significantly higher, this could be very beneficial for her. The fact that she's on disability rather than retirement doesn't disqualify her, but it does affect how SSA handles the benefits. They won't stack - she'll get the higher of the two amounts. She might receive a small supplement to bring her SSDI up to the survivor benefit level.

my mom went thru this exact thing!! divorced after 22 yrs, was on disability, when dad died she got his benefit instead of her smaller one. took like 6 weeks to switch over tho and was a NIGHTMARE dealing with ssa on phone. she ended up with about $900 more per month

The previous responses are mostly correct, but I want to clarify a few important details about divorced widow's benefits: 1. Your mother's potential survivor benefit would be based on your father's Primary Insurance Amount (PIA), not his reduced benefit amount. The PIA is what he would have received at his Full Retirement Age, not the reduced amount from claiming at 62. 2. Since your mother is disabled and already receiving SSDI, when she reaches her FRA (probably 67 depending on birth year), she can receive up to 100% of your father's PIA if he passes away. 3. If your father passes before your mother reaches her FRA and she claims survivor benefits early, there would be a reduction factor applied. 4. The switch from SSDI to survivor benefits isn't automatic - she would need to apply when the time comes. 5. There's also something called the RIB-LIM rule that might apply in her case, which can affect the calculation if she takes benefits early. I recommend she schedule an appointment with SSA to get a personalized benefits calculation based on both their exact records.

Im in almost the same boat!!! My parents divorced after 29 yrs and mom is disabled (57) and dad retired early (65). The SSA told us mom can get divorced spouse benefits NOW even while dad is still alive because shes over 50 and disabled. Did anyone tell you about that option??

Sorry but this is EXACTLY why I tell everyone to be VERY careful about taking early retirement!!! Your dad lost THOUSANDS by claiming at 62! His benefit would be at least $4500-5000 if he had waited until 70!!! And now your mom might get less survivor benefits because of his decision!!! Social Security is SO COMPLICATED and the govt makes it IMPOSSIBLE to understand on purpose!!!

Thank you all for the helpful responses! Based on your advice, I've talked with my mom and we're going to: 1. Calculate what 100% of dad's PIA would be (vs his reduced benefit) 2. Compare that to her current SSDI amount 3. Make sure she understands she'll need to apply for survivor benefits if/when the time comes It's a relief to know she'd have options if something happens to my dad. The divorce has been stressful enough without worrying about financial insecurity. I appreciate everyone sharing their knowledge and personal experiences!