Losing a spouse is a difficult and emotional experience. Aside from coping with grief, many people worry about their financial future, especially when Social Security benefits are involved. If your spouse was receiving Social Security benefits or if you were getting spousal benefits, you might wonder what happens next. Understanding these changes can help you prepare and manage your finances better during this challenging time.
Is a Spouse Eligible for Social Security Benefits?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows spouses to receive benefits based on their partner’s work history. If you are at least 62 years old, you may qualify for benefits, even if you have never worked under Social Security. However, your spouse must have been receiving retirement or disability benefits for you to qualify.
Can a Surviving Spouse Receive Benefits?
Yes, a surviving spouse may qualify for Social Security survivor benefits. Here’s how:
- If you are at least 60 years old, you can receive reduced survivor benefits.
- If you are 50 or older and have a disability that started before or within seven years of your spouse’s death, you may qualify.
- If you are caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child who receives benefits, you may be eligible regardless of your age.
- If you remarry before age 60 (or 50 if disabled), you may lose eligibility for survivor benefits.
How Much Does a Surviving Spouse Receive?
The amount you receive depends on your age and circumstances:
- If you have reached full retirement age, you can receive 100% of your deceased spouse’s benefit amount.
- If you are between 60 and full retirement age, you will receive between 71.5% and 99% of the benefit amount.
- If you are 50 to 59 and have a disability, you can receive 71.5%.
- If you are caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child, you will receive 75% of the benefit amount.
Does Divorce Affect Survivor Benefits?
Divorced spouses can still receive survivor benefits if:
- The marriage lasted at least 10 years.
- The divorced spouse is 60 or older (or 50 with a disability).
- The divorced spouse is not remarried before the eligible age.
- They are caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child who qualifies for benefits.
Is There a Lump-Sum Death Payment?
A one-time lump sum of $255 may be paid to a surviving spouse if they lived with the deceased at the time of death. If there is no surviving spouse, the payment may be made to a child who qualifies for benefits.
What Happens to Benefits When a Spouse Dies?
- If you were receiving spousal benefits, they automatically convert to survivor benefits.
- If you were receiving your own benefits, you can apply for survivor benefits if they provide a higher payment.
- If you have not yet applied for benefits, you can choose between survivor benefits or your own retirement benefits, depending on which is higher.
How to Notify the Social Security Administration About a Death
It is essential to notify the SSA as soon as possible after your spouse’s death. You cannot report a death online. Instead, you must:
- Call the SSA at 800-772-1213.
- Visit a local Social Security office in person.
- Funeral homes often notify the SSA on behalf of families, so check if this service has been provided.
Understanding what happens to Social Security benefits after a spouse’s death can help ease financial stress. Survivor benefits can provide essential financial support, but eligibility and payment amounts depend on various factors such as age, disability status, and marital history. Knowing your options and taking prompt action can ensure that you receive the benefits you’re entitled to during this difficult time.
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