Can I work and also collect Widows/Survivors Benefits at the same time?

ByChristopher Le

 

Can I work and receive my spouse’s survivors / widows benefits based on my deceased spouse’s SSDI disability benefits?

Well, it depends. It will depend on how old you are and how much you are earning working at your job. Here are some of the most common questions regarding working and still collecting survivors benefits.

How much money can I make without it affecting my survivors benefits?

This answer depends on your age. If you have reached full retirement, then you can earn as much money as you want and still collect survivors benefits. However, if you are not retirement age yet, you can earn up to $19,560 (for year 2022) before it affects your survivors benefits.

Will my survivors benefits be reduced if I am not yet 60 and am still working?

If you are not 60 years of age yet, then yes, SSA will reduce your monthly survivors benefit by half of the amount you earn over the annual limit of $19,560. If you are close to age 60 and going to reach age 60 within the year, then SSA will only reduce your survivors monthly benefit amount by 1/3 of the amount you earn over the annual limit.

What income does SSA consider when determining annual limit?

Normally SSA will consider the wages you earn as an employee. If you are self employed they consider the profits you made after expenses paid. If you are receiving any other kinds of benefits such as VA benefits, pension, or investment income, SSA does not factor those figures in when determining annual limit.

Christopher Le is the Founder of the Law Offices of Christopher Le. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, he became the first Vietnamese American in his family to become an Attorney. He takes pride in representing the working person against big insurance companies and feels that our system of justice guarantees equal rights to all citizens. He also fights for those who are no longer able to work due to a disabling condition file for social security disability benefits. Christopher comes from a hard working family who came to the United States with very little.