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Can my wife in Thailand collect my Social Security Disability benefits if I pass away?

Jun 23, 2025
2 days ago
Bill *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
If you live in the USA and your wife lives in Thailand waiting on Green card can she collect your Social Security Disability if you pass away ?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion revolves around whether a wife living in Thailand can claim Social Security Disability benefits after her husband's death. Several comments suggest that the wife must reside in the US for a certain period (often noted as 5 years) to be eligible for any survivor benefits. Some users recommend calling the Social Security Administration for specific guidance, while others emphasize that benefits are primarily for the individual and their children, not spouses.
Steve ***********
Bill *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Greg ******
SS has some qualification requirements, US residence or payment into SS for many quarters.
Ken *******
Yes it probably is best to call social security. However one thing has been consistent in that they must have lived in the United States for 5 years to receive the spouses benefits.
Bill *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Diane ********
I would call social security and ask
Joann ********************
Only if she is in the US for 5 years. My brother was just told this by SS
Bill *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Joann ********************
@Bill ********
residency requirements. 5 yrs in USA
Bob **********
No,I believe she has to be residing in the US to receive her green card
David *****
Yes but must meet certain conditions. Like residency in the US.
Steve ***********
Is there a beneficiary on disability?

Regular ss, yes
Jetaun ********
@Steve **********
She needs to lives in US for at least 60 consecutive months…. And there’s more.. stop getting scammed by these women 🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️
Bill *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Steve ***********
@Jetaun *******
disability is paid for people that can't work, if they pass, why should government continue to pay?
Bill *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Steve **********
not true . Worked for 40 yrs before I got my disability.
Jetaun ********
@Steve **********
and disability is for the individual and their offsprings, under the age of 18, and if the offsprings are founded disabled prior to reaching age 22. Then that offspring gets it for their rest of lives. They are dependent of that individual. Not for the spouses. Again, stop letting these women scam you 🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️
John *******
John *******
Looks like it is a no
Shayne **********
@Ken ******
has helped a few widows in similar circumstances.
Glenn *****
Interning question which is best answered by phoning social security
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