Individuals who are beneficiaries of a deceased person may receive monthly payments from Social Security if the deceased had worked and contributed to Social Security. Typically, there is no need to apply for Survivor benefits if you are already receiving Family benefits. Your benefit type and amount will be automatically adjusted. You might be eligible if you are the spouse, ex-spouse, child, adult child with a disability, or dependent parent of someone who paid into Social Security before their passing.
These benefits assist surviving spouses, children, and in certain situations, dependent parents in maintaining financial security following the loss of the primary earner. Here is an overview of how Social Security survivor benefits function:
Who Can Receive Social Security Survivor Benefits?
- At Full Retirement Age (FRA): A surviving spouse can obtain 100% of the deceased spouse’s Social Security benefit.
- Early (beginning at age 60): A surviving spouse may start receiving benefits at age 60; however, the benefit amount will be decreased if claimed before reaching full retirement age.
- If the Surviving Spouse is Disabled: A disabled surviving spouse can commence receiving survivor benefits as early as age 50.
- Caregiver: If a surviving spouse is responsible for the deceased’s children who are under 16 or disabled, they may be entitled to benefits regardless of their age.
- Minor Children: Children under the age of 18 (or up to 19 if still enrolled in high school) can qualify for survivor benefits.
- Disabled Children: Children who have a disability that began before turning 22 may continue to receive benefits.
- Dependent Parents: If the deceased provided at least half of a parent’s financial support, the parent may qualify for survivor benefits. The parent must be at least 62 years old.
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How Much Are Survivor Benefits?
The amount of survivor benefits is determined by the earnings history of the deceased. The greater the earnings and contributions to Social Security, the higher the survivor benefit will be.
- Full Benefits: A surviving spouse can receive up to 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefit if they wait until reaching full retirement age (FRA).
- Reduced Benefits: If benefits are claimed before FRA, the amount will be decreased and will remain permanently lower.
- Children’s Benefits: The benefit amount is typically a percentage of the deceased individual’s benefit, generally around 75% for each eligible child.
How to Apply for Survivor Benefits
Survivors must request Social Security survivor benefits either online or by reaching out to the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is crucial to apply as soon as possible, as there may be deadlines or a requirement to provide specific documentation, such as:
- A death certificate
- Proof of the relationship (for example, a marriage certificate for spouses or birth certificates for children)
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Special Circumstances
Widows/Widowers and Remarriage: A widow or widower may remarry after the age of 60 (or age 50 if disabled) and still qualify for survivor benefits. However, if they remarry before reaching these ages, they will typically lose their survivor benefits.
Work and Survivor Benefits: A surviving spouse who works and receives their own Social Security benefit may choose between their benefit or the survivor benefit, depending on which is higher.
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Benefit Duration
Spouse: A surviving spouse can receive benefits as long as they remain unmarried (unless they remarry after age 60). However, benefits for a spouse or children will cease if they no longer meet eligibility requirements, such as when a child turns 18 (unless the child is disabled). Children: Benefits generally stop when a child turns 18, but they can continue if the child is still in high school or has a disability.
Resources
To find out exact benefit amounts and to apply, survivors should contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) or visit the official website at www.ssa.gov for more information. Social Security survivor benefits provide a financial safety net for those who lose a loved one who contributed to the Social Security system, ensuring that the deceased’s family members can continue to meet their basic needs. While we can’t assist with survivor benefits, we recommend consulting a representative from the Social Security Administration or an attorney who specializes in survivor benefits.
How Marc Whitehead and Associates Can Help
Although we cannot provide assistance with survivor benefits, we suggest consulting a representative from the Social Security Administration or an attorney who specializes in Survivor benefits.
Marc Whitehead & Associates assists clients nationwide with applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or appeals of previous denials. A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you navigate the process of applying for benefits and can assist you with appeals. Learn how our Disability law firm in Houston, Texas can support you during a free, no-obligation consultation. Get the help you need today by calling us at (800) 562-983.
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