Losing a Spouse: What You Should Know About Social Security Benefits
Losing your spouse is one of life’s hardest experiences. It can be emotionally painful and financially stressful. Here are some FAQs on this subject.
Can I Get Survivor Benefits?
You might be able to receive Social Security benefits after your spouse passes away—even if you were divorced. Here’s what affects your eligibility:
1. Your Age
- 60 or older – You may qualify for survivor benefits.
- 50 or older and disabled – You may qualify.
- Any age – If you’re caring for your spouse’s child who is under 16, or has a disability that began before age 22.
Children (including stepchildren, grandchildren, adopted children) may also qualify for benefits.
2. Your Job
- You may be able to work and still get survivor benefits.
- If you’re under full retirement age, there’s a limit to how much you can earn before your benefits are reduced.
3. Other Benefits You Receive
- If you already get retirement or disability benefits on your own work record, you’ll get whichever amount is higher—your benefit or the survivor benefit.
How Much Will I Get?
The amount you receive depends on how much your spouse earned during their life. As a surviving spouse, you may get between 71.5% and 100% of their benefit.
If you wait until your full retirement age to apply, your monthly benefit will be higher.
When Should I Apply?
Contact Social Security office at 1-800-772-1213 as soon as possible after your spouse dies.
You might be able to:
- Start with survivor benefits and delay your own retirement benefits until later (if they’re higher).
- Or take your own retirement benefits first and switch to survivor benefits later.
We’ll help you decide what works best for your situation.
How Do I Apply?
To apply for survivor benefits, call 1-800-772-1213.
Important:
- If you’re already getting spouse benefits, you’ll automatically be switched to survivor benefits if they’re higher. But still call to apply for the one-time $255 payment.
- You can’t apply online for survivor benefits.
What If I’m Divorced?
You may still qualify if:
- You were married to your ex-spouse for at least 10 years.
- You’re 60 or older, or 50 or older with a disability.
- You’re not remarried (unless you remarried after age 60).
Also, in some cases, you may receive divorced spouse benefits even if your ex is still alive.
For more details, visit the Social Security blog:
What You Should Know If Your Spouse Passes Away