Questions about Social 安全 survivor benefits

的 death of a loved one is an emotional challenge, but it can also carry a real financial impact. Because of the effect it can have on 家庭财务状况 和 退休储蓄, Social 安全 provides survivor benefits (sometimes called a Social 安全 death benefit). 将近600万美国人 were receiving Social 安全 survivor benefits as of May 2021 — two-thirds of whom were bereaved spouses. Here are a few common questions people ask about how survivor benefits work:

What happens to Social 安全 after death?

当一个人 有资格领取社会保障 死了, 他们的配偶可以得到 monthly payments in the form of survivor benefits, provided they themselves have reached their 法定退休年龄. If the survivor qualifies for Social 安全 on their own earnings record, they'll receive whichever monthly amount is greater.

How do you collect Social 安全 death benefits?

This process typically happens automatically for those already receiving spousal benefits, but others may have to apply for their survivor benefits by phone or in person at a Social 安全 office.

Who qualifies for Social 安全 survivor benefits?

的 list of those who qualify for Social 安全 survivor benefits includes surviving spouses, 再婚配偶, 离婚的配偶, 未成年或残疾儿童, 依赖父母. 的 社会保障网站 provides a description of the eligibility criteria.

How long does a spouse get survivor benefits?

In general, survivor benefits are payable for life. A widow or widower can apply for benefits starting at age 60, but applying for benefits early (i.e., before reaching 法定退休年龄) can lead to 福利金额的减少.