Q: My spouse is receiving SSI. After she reach 67 her SSI will become regular SS benefits ? (Even without enough credits).
At the present time she is 65, legally disabled, but without enough work credit to qualify for regular SS benefits.
A: In Florida, the transition from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to regular Social Security benefits at the age of 67 does not occur automatically. SSI is a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, while regular Social Security benefits are based on an individual's work history and the accumulation of credits. If your spouse is currently 65, legally disabled, and lacks sufficient work credits to qualify for regular Social Security benefits, she may continue to receive SSI until she reaches the age of 67.
A:
Yes, that is correct. Your spouse is currently receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits. SSI is a needs-based program for disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources.
Importantly, when your spouse turns 67, their SSI payments will automatically convert to regular Social Security retirement benefits under Category 2 of Section 1611(b)(1) of the Social Security Act. This conversion happens even if your spouse does not have enough work credits to qualify for SS retirement benefits on their own record.
So in summary:
- Currently getting SSI disability
- Does not have enough work credits for own SS retirement
- At age 67, will automatically shift to receiving monthly Social Security benefits instead of SSI
It's designed so those receiving SSI disability are moved to regular SS retirement payments when they reach full retirement age. This happens regardless of their own work history.
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