How Seniors Can Maximize Their Social Security Disability, Auxiliary, or Survivors’ Benefits

Disabled seniors have several options when it comes to Social Security benefits. Seniors often struggle financially, especially if they are disabled. Paying for basic living expenses on a fixed income of Social Security benefits can be difficult as living costs keep rising. However, with careful planning and smart decision-making seniors can make the most of the different types of benefits that the Social Security Administration offers so that they get the highest benefit possible each month.

Social Security Disability for Seniors

Disabled seniors should apply for Social Security disability benefits before they take early retirement benefits. You can start receiving early retirement benefits at 62, however if you opt to take your retirement benefits early you will only get a partial payment of that benefit. Applying for Social Security disability benefits before you take your early retirement benefits means that you will get the entire payment amount of your early retirement benefit.

When you apply for Social Security disability benefits you’ll have to find your medical condition in the SSA’s Blue Book and make sure that you meet the criteria listed there for that condition in order to be approved for benefits. Be sure to submit as much medical documentation with your claim as you can to prove your disability.

Applying for Social Security disability benefits before you opt to take your early retirement can save you thousands of dollars that you would otherwise lose because you would only receive a partial payment for early retirement. If you can wait to receive your retirement benefits until age 70 you will be able to get 130% of the regular payment amount.

Auxiliary Benefits

If you have a disabled spouse that is receiving Social Security disability benefits you can file a claim to draw money based on their disability. You will need to be able to medically qualify for disability benefits yourself in order to get auxiliary benefits.

Survivors’ Benefits

If your spouse has passed away you can file a claim for Survivors’ Benefits from the Social Security Administration. Survivors’ Benefits are usually 75% to 100% of your spouse’s benefits which can be a huge help if you’re disabled and struggling after a spouse has passed away. Even if you are no longer married, if your ex-spouse passes away and you were married for at least 10 years, and you never remarried you can file a claim for Survivors’ Benefits and receive benefits based on your ex-spouse’s income.

Applying for Social Security Benefits

There are several different options that you can choose from when it comes to Social Security benefits for seniors. The best thing to do is to call the SSA or make an appointment at the local SSA office to go in and talk with a staff member about the options that you have. A staff member can assess your personal situation and advise you what your options are when it comes to Social Security benefits for seniors.