Losing a spouse is devastating—and the financial aftermath can be just as overwhelming. For widowers over 50 who are disabled and working part-time, navigating the complex rules around Social Security survivor benefits can be especially challenging. The good news is that with the right approach, you can often collect benefits and still keep your job.
At PLBH, we help employees understand how disability, part-time work, and survivor benefits intersect. Below, we break down the key factors that can help disabled widowers over 50 protect and maximize their financial support.
Who Qualifies for Disabled Widow(er)’s Benefits?
Social Security offers survivor benefits to widows and widowers who meet certain criteria. Specifically, you may qualify for disabled widow(er)’s benefits if:
- You are between ages 50 and 59
- Your spouse was fully insured under Social Security
- You have a qualifying disability that began before or within seven years of your spouse’s death
- You were married to your spouse for at least nine months before their passing
These benefits are based on your deceased spouse’s earnings record and can offer a lifeline to those who cannot work full-time due to a medical condition.
Can You Work Part-Time and Still Receive Benefits?
Yes—but your income must stay below certain limits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets strict earning thresholds for individuals receiving disability benefits. If you earn more than these limits, your benefits could be reduced or even suspended.
2025 Income Limits for Disabled Beneficiaries:
- Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals: $1,550/month
- Trial Work Period (TWP) threshold: $1,110/month (if attempting to return to work full-time)
As long as your part-time income stays under the SGA limit, you can generally continue receiving survivor benefits. However, the SSA will periodically review your income, so it’s important to keep detailed records and report earnings accurately.
Tips to Maximize Benefits While Working Part-Time
Balancing part-time work with survivor benefits requires planning. Here’s how to make the most of both:
1. Understand How Benefits Are Calculated
Survivor benefits are typically a percentage of your spouse’s primary insurance amount (PIA). For disabled widowers aged 50–59, the benefit is generally 71.5% of the PIA. This amount doesn’t increase by waiting—so if you qualify, applying sooner rather than later often makes sense.
2. Coordinate With Other Disability Benefits
If you receive SSDI or workers’ compensation in addition to survivor benefits, your total benefits may be subject to a combined limit. Speak with an attorney to assess how different benefit streams interact.
3. Track Your Monthly Earnings
Even if you’re well under the annual income cap, earning too much in a single month could trigger a review. Break up work hours or projects to keep monthly income consistent and predictable.
4. Be Prepared for Reviews
The SSA conducts periodic Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to ensure recipients still meet eligibility requirements. Keep up with doctor visits, medications, and any required treatments so your medical documentation remains current.
When to Speak With an Attorney
If you’re unsure whether your income will affect your survivor benefits—or if you’ve received a notice from the SSA that your benefits may be reduced—it’s a good idea to speak with an employment and benefits attorney. Errors in reporting or misunderstandings about income limits can lead to benefit suspensions or overpayment claims.
An attorney can also assist if your initial application for survivor benefits was denied, especially if the SSA questioned your disability status or income.
Call PLBH at (800) 435-7542 for Help Protecting Your Benefits
If you’re a disabled widower over 50 trying to balance part-time work with survivor benefits, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today. We’ll help you understand your options and ensure your benefits are protected while you continue working.