The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to people who can no longer work due to their disabilities. In some situations, spouses or ex-spouses of SSDI recipients may also qualify for benefits. These benefits can provide a much-needed financial stability, offering relief and peace of mind for families unable to work.
Spousal benefits can help people who might not have earned enough work credits on their own but are (or were) married to someone who did. Benefits may also be available for people who took on caregiving responsibilities for children. If this applies to you, contact an experienced SSDI attorney today to discuss Kansas City SSDI benefits for spouses.
Some spouses of SSDI recipients in Kansas City can receive benefits while the spouse or ex-spouse is still living. The spouse working before the disability must have worked long enough to obtain 40 credits, with 20 of those earned in the last ten years.
If the individual was voluntarily out of the workforce for an extended period of time (five years or longer) prior to the medical condition, the spouse may not qualify for SSDI benefits.
The SSA calculates spousal benefits based on the SSDI recipient’s benefit amount. A spouse can receive up to 50% of the working spouse’s SSDI benefits.
If you qualify based on age, the monthly benefit amount could be reduced if you start receiving benefits before retirement age. The benefits will not be reduced if you qualify because of caregiving responsibilities.
A surviving or divorced spouse may qualify for SSDI benefits if they meet certain conditions. First, the surviving spouse must be between 50 and 60. Second, they must have a qualifying medical condition that began either before the spouse’s death or within 7 years.
A lawyer can advise you on how to expedite the process, such as having an Adult Disability Report completed and in hand at the appointment to avoid delays. Our team can guide you through this process and ensure you have all the necessary documentation for your appointment.
SSDI benefits can provide essential financial support for spouses or divorced spouses if certain conditions are met. Whether you qualify based on age, caregiving responsibilities, or survivor benefits, at BurnettDriskill, we understand the SSA’s rules and procedures and can help with your application.
An experienced lawyer from our legal team can discuss whether you qualify to receive Kansas City SSDI benefits for spouses. We can help you understand the complex rules and procedures of the SSA, ensure your application is complete and accurate, and represent you in any appeals if your application is denied. Call us today to discuss your possible eligibility or to begin your application.
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