When does a spouse get disability benefits as well?

Disability benefits are generally provided by the SSA to a covered worker who has worked for a set amount of time within the SSA system and who has a disability that renders him or her unable to work. These benefits, called SSDI benefits, are intended to replace a person's income when he has become disabled and unable to support himself. Disability benefits through the SSDI program aren't going to cover a spouse or provide income to a spouse, since that is not their purpose. However, there may be other types of benefits that are available to the spouse of a disabled person. 

Most often, a person who is seeking social security benefits on the basis of his or her spouse being disabled, is going to seek SSI benefits. These are also referred to as supplemental security income benefits. There are a number of requirements that a person must meet to qualify for SSI benefits. In addition to having some type of qualifying reason to need SSI (either a disabled spouse or, in some cases a disabled child could be a reason) the person applying will also need to show that his or her total family income falls below the level permitted to collect SSI benefits. 

There may also be additional benefits available as well, depending on the ages of the parties involved and the type and cause of disability. If you are concerned in any way about the benefits available to you through the SSA, it is always in your best interests to consult with a lawyer for help and advice.