A widow(er), from the attainment of age 50 until attainment of age 60, may be entitled
to disability benefits based on the earning record of his or her deceased spouse.
After the widow(er) attains the age of 60, we do not need a disability determination
for a widow(er) to receive widow(er) benefits. If supported by the evidence in the
file, we establish an EOD before the attainment of age 50 for the claimant to meet
the waiting period requirement.
Reminder: A claimant attains a particular age the day before his or her birthday.
NOTE: A widow(er) can file for Medicare Benefits after attainment of age 60 if the claimant’s
alleged onset date (AOD) is within the prescribed period. For information on establishing
an onset date for DWB Medicare claims, see DI 25501.360.