Actually, a woman who never worked, could draw Social Security benefits from her husband's account. For example, when he retires, and is eligible for say $500.00 a month, she could also draw a monthly benefit for herself. Thus, he might get $400 and she the other $100 (for the $500 total). The advantage is, if he dies, her money will continue. So a woman who never worked, could draw benefits, and would be listed on the SSDI.