How do I Receive Both SSDI & Survivor Benefits at Same Time?

Receive SSDI and survivor benefits for yourself and your family.

A single person is unable to receive SSDI and Survivor benefits at the same time, however, a family can recieve both types of benefits simultaneously. SSDI is Social Security Disability Insurance and is paid to disabled individuals who earned the required number of Social Security credits. Survivor benefits are paid to widows or widowers who are the parent of a mutual minor child under 16-years-old, and to the minor children of a deceased individual. A person receiving SSDI who is at least 50 years of age without a minor child under 16 may also qualify for survivor benefits if their spouse or qualifying ex-spouse dies. Social Security determines which benefit is the most advantageous to the individual and will change SSDI to Survivor benefits if it benefits the disabled person.

Instructions

1. Complete an application for SSDI for disabled adults in the home. Applications can be completed online or mailed. Minor children can receive SSDI based on the parent's or step-parent's disability.

2. Call the Social Security Office upon the death of a parent or step-parent. Obtain a copy of the certified death certificate and additional forms the agency will need.

3. Set up a checking or savings account for direct deposit of the Social Security income. Ask your representative if each child needs their own account.

Tips & Warnings

• Register online at SSA to monitor your benefits, enter changes to your address or direct deposit information.

References

• Social Security: Survivors Insurance Program
• Social Security: Disability Benefits