Social Security Benefits When Spouse Dies: Eligibility and Payments

You may be eligible to receive Social Security Benefits When Spouse Dies. These benefits can provide financial support based on your spouse’s earnings and your eligibility. Knowing how these benefits work can help you secure the assistance you deserve during this difficult time.

Who Can Get Social Security Benefits When Spouse Dies

Not everyone qualifies for survivor benefits. Here are the people who may be eligible:

• The surviving spouse
• A divorced spouse (if the marriage lasted at least 10 years)
• A child of the deceased
• A dependent parent of the deceased who paid Social Security taxes

Your age also affects eligibility:

• Surviving spouses can claim benefits starting at age 60 (or 50 if disabled)
• If you’re caring for the deceased’s child who is under 16 or disabled, you can claim benefits at any age
• Children qualify if they are unmarried and under 18 (or up to 19 if still in school). Those with disabilities that started before age 22 may also be eligible
• Divorced spouses must be unmarried to claim benefits based on an ex-spouse’s record

For those wondering about divorced spouse benefits, you might also be interested in learning Can a Divorced Spouse Receive Half of Your Social Security Benefits? Who is Eligible? to see how Social Security rules apply in such cases.

How Much Can a Surviving Spouse Receive

Example Scenarios on Social Security Benefits When Spouse Dies

• Jane’s husband, Tom, was receiving $2,000 per month. If Jane is 67 (her FRA), she will receive $2,000 per month. If she claims benefits at 60, she would receive about $1,430 (71.5% of $2,000).
• Mark’s wife passed away, and he cares for their 12-year-old child. Mark can claim 75% of his wife’s PIA. If her PIA was $2,000, he would receive $1,500 per month.

How to Apply for Survivor Benefits

Applying for benefits involves a few steps:

1. Report the death – The funeral home may do this, but you can also contact Social Security directly.
2. Gather necessary documents – You’ll need:
   • Death certificate
   • Your birth certificate
   • Marriage certificate (if applying as a spouse)
   • Divorce decree (if applying as an ex-spouse)
   • Social Security numbers for you and the deceased
   • W-2 forms or tax returns for the deceased
   • Children’s birth certificates or disability proof (if applicable)
3. Apply for benefits – You can apply:
   • Online through the Social Security Administration website (if you’re at least 62)
   • By calling (800) 772-1213
   • In person at your local Social Security office (schedule an appointment first)

Additionally, suppose you’re interested in financial assistance programs. In that case, you might want to check out $1,000 HEAP Stimulus Checks for New York Seniors: Who Qualifies and How to Apply to see if you or someone you know may be eligible for extra financial help.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for survivor benefits at any time?

Yes, there is no deadline for applying. You can claim benefits whenever it makes the most sense for your financial situation.

2. Can I work while receiving survivor benefits?

Yes, you can work while receiving benefits. However, if you’re under FRA, earning too much might reduce your benefits.

3. Can I receive both my own retirement benefits and survivor benefits?

No, you will only receive the higher of the two benefits, not both at the same time.