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Program Description

Are you a surviving spouse, with a disability, of a worker who worked long enough to earn Social Security credits? If so, you may qualify for benefits.

General Program Requirements

As a surviving spouse with a disability, you may qualify for benefits if you meet the conditions below:

  • You are between ages 50 and 60.
  • You meet the definition of disability for adults.
  • Your disability started before or within seven years of your spouse's death.

Other terms and conditions may apply.

Application Process

Visit the Benefits for Surviving Spouses with Disabilities page for details on how to apply.

If you want to apply for disability benefits as a survivor, call one of the phone numbers below to make an appointment.

To learn about Social Security benefits you may qualify for, use the SSA BEST (Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool). When you complete the questionnaire, you get a list of benefits to review. You can print this page for your records.

To apply for benefits, visit the Apply for Social Security Benefits page. You can also call to learn more about benefits or to set up an appointment.

Last Updated: 06/22/2023