2. Workers Who Die Before Age 62

You can start claiming Social Security as early as age 62. If someone deceases prematurely, then dependent children and spouses may be eligible for survivor benefits. For example, a 60-year-old widow or widower can begin obtaining Social Security benefits based on their departed spouse’s working record (disabled spouses can do that even earlier, at age 50).

Also, critically ill patients can ask for SSDI and still receive some benefits for contributing to the system. For those who are terminally ill and have reached the minimum retirement age, there are two possibilities. Number one: if they are single, claiming retirement benefits would be the best idea.

Number two: if they are married, delaying may bring the spouse greater benefits. The spousal benefit can be up to 50% of the worker’s benefits, based on the spouse’s age at retirement and if the spouse qualifies for retirement benefits set up on their own earnings history.