Social Security Disability for a Spouse or Child
If you are a widow and disabled, you may qualify for higher benefits than you would receive under your own impairment. Your children may also be eligible, as survivors or under their own disability.
The law firm of Coats & Todd can determine if you or your child qualify for Social Security disability, SSI or survivors benefits. We can guide your case through a complex legal system. We can help even if your claim has already been denied.
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Our knowledgeable attorneys serve clients in Plano, the entire Dallas-Fort Worth area, statewide Texas and throughout the United States. Call our Richardson, Texas office at 1-800-856-1031.
Widows, Widowers and Divorced Spouses
You may be entitled to full Social Security survivors benefits at age 65 or partial benefits at age 60 based on the earnings of your deceased spouse or ex-spouse. But if you are disabled you may qualify for survivors benefits starting at age 50.
Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits are based on how much you paid into the system. If your husband (or wife) was the sole breadwinner or earned more than you, survivors benefits will provide higher income than filing for SSDI based on your own work history. Your children under age 18 can also receive survivors benefits.
- You still must meet the requirements for Social Security disability.
- You must have been married at least 10 years.
- Your spouse must have died within the last 10 years.
Claims for Children with Disabilities
Children's cases are the hardest to prove. There is a higher standard of disability — profound mental, physical, academic or social dysfunction. Some conditions automatically qualify, while others will require extensive examinations and documentation. Coats & Todd can determine if you have a viable case and can assemble all the necessary records to submit or appeal the claim.
Children under 18 can qualify for disability only if their parents meet the low income criteria for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Your adult disabled child may qualify for SSDI based on your earnings or a deceased parent's earnings.
We Will Walk You Through This
Confused? Questions? Please contact us for a free initial consultation. Our friendly lawyers and staff are here to help. We care about your claim and we will support you through a difficult process. It costs nothing to explore survivors benefits, and there are no attorney fees unless we get you approved.
