If the widow(er) is also receiving a disability insurance benefit (DIB), compare benefits
to see if it would be advantageous for the disabled widow(er) to elect WIB benefits
before their youngest child attains age 16.
Mother or father beneficiaries who allege disability should be advised to file early
in the 5-month period preceding their youngest child’s 16th birthday. Otherwise, a mother or father beneficiary should not file a claim for disabled
widow(er)’s benefits (DWB) until the youngest child in care is approaching age 16,
unless there are months in which a child is not in care.
The SSA-L1076-EP sent to the mother/father beneficiary 5 months before the youngest
child attains age 16 explains the requirements for DWB.
When transmitting the claim for a disability determination, the FO will note “Mother's
(or Father's) benefits termination (date)” on the electronic disability collect system
(EDCS) or in item 23 on the SSA-831. Detailed EDCS instructions are contained in DI 81010.085. Upon receipt of notice that disability has been established, the program center
(PC) will prepare the widow(er)'s award effective with the first month for which the
claimant is no longer entitled to mother's/father's benefits.