If you’re considering marriage, it’s wise to look closely at how your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits might change. If you are a beneficiary of a disabled worker’s Social Security disability insurance work record, getting married may mean losing benefits. You should know the answers to the questions below before exchanging vows.

FAQ on How Marriage Can Change SSDI Benefits

Are there instances when marriage does not change benefits?

Yes. If your employer deducted payments for the SSDI fund from your wages or salary before you suffered a disability, then getting married won’t affect your monthly benefits amount. Your future spouse’s employment status or amount of earnings don’t make a difference. 

Are my benefits at risk if I get married after my spouse dies?

Yes. If you are widowed and receiving disability benefits based on your deceased spouse’s work record, your benefits end when you remarry. However, remarriage after age 60 or if you’re disabled and remarry before age 50, the marriage doesn’t stop you from becoming entitled to benefits on your prior deceased spouse’s Social Security earnings record.

Will I lose SSDI benefits if I remarry after a divorce?

If you are divorced and receiving disability benefits under your former spouse’s work credits, your eligibility for benefits ends when you remarry. But if you remarry before you turn 60 and that marriage ends, you may be entitled or re-entitled to claim benefits on your prior deceased spouse’s earnings record. Remarriage after age 60, or after age 50 if you are disabled, allows you to keep your benefits.

What happens if I am receiving disability benefits from a parent?

If you’re a disabled adult child receiving disability benefits based on your parent’s work record, generally you won’t be eligible for benefits once you get married. You might be able to keep your benefits if you marry another disabled adult receiving Social Security disability benefits from their parent’s work credits.

Social Security disability attorney David Schmidt of Woodlawn Law Offices offers more than 25 years of experience to residents of the St. Charles County, MO, area. His wise counsel and strong advocacy help individuals obtain and keep their disability benefits. Get the advice you need for disability benefits and estate planning before and after marriage. Visit his office's website or schedule a consultation by calling (636) 240-6667.