Oct
09
2010
By Guest (not verified)
Is there a grace period when you can apply to receive your deceased spouses social security benefits? My husband died over 10 years ago and I didn't realize I could get his benefits. Can I still apply for them? I am not remarried and we were married for over 40 years.
Late application for survivor benefits
Assuming your husband had work history to obtain coverage, I would definitely encourage you to investigate survivor benefits.
Social Security survivors benefits can be paid to widow. Full survivor benefits at full retirement age (age 65 or later), or reduced benefits as early as age 60.
You should apply for survivors benefits promptly because, in some cases, benefits will be paid from the time you apply and not from the time the worker died.
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10084.html#3
http://www.ssa.gov/ww&os2.htm