How do personal SSDI benefits affect Widow's/Widower's benefits in Utah?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 12/22/2025


How do personal SSDI benefits affect Widow's/Widower's benefits in Utah? In Utah, receiving personal SSDI benefits can impact the amount you get from widow's or widower's benefits. If you qualify for both, the Social Security Administration will usually pay you the higher amount between your own SSDI benefit or the survivor benefit. This means you won’t generally receive both full benefits at the same time. Understanding how these benefits interact can help you maximize your monthly Social Security income.

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Overview of Benefit Coordination

Key points to consider in Utah:

  • SSDI benefits are based on your own disability record, while widow's/widower's benefits are based on your deceased spouse’s work history.
  • Social Security generally pays the higher benefit when you are eligible for both SSDI and survivor benefits.
  • You cannot collect full amounts of both simultaneously; benefits are not combined.
  • Switching benefits from your SSDI to widow's/widower's benefits may be required as circumstances change.
  • Widow’s/Widower’s benefits can begin as early as age 60 (50 if disabled), while SSDI benefits may start earlier based on your disability.
  • Cost-of-living adjustments apply separately to each type of benefit, affecting monthly payments.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we assist Utah residents by:

  • Reviewing your SSDI and widow’s/widower’s benefit eligibility to determine the best filing strategy.
  • Explaining how receiving personal SSDI benefits may affect your survivor benefits and monthly income.
  • Helping you understand your options for switching between benefits to maximize payments.
  • Guiding you through the application and appeal process for either benefit if needed.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you want to understand how your personal SSDI benefits affect your widow's/widower's benefits in Utah, contact Hogan Smith today for a complimentary consultation. Let our experienced team help you navigate complex Social Security rules and secure the maximum possible benefits you deserve.


Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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