Social Security Survivor Benefits Explained
Survivor benefits let a widow or widower collect on a deceased spouse's record — from 71.5% at age 60 to 100% at FRA.
Survivor benefits let a widow or widower collect on a deceased spouse's record — from 71.5% at age 60 to 100% at FRA.
When a spouse dies, the surviving spouse can claim a survivor benefit on the deceased's record. The amount depends on the survivor's age: as early as 60 (about 71.5% of the deceased's PIA), 100% at the survivor's FRA, and up to about 114% at 70 with delayed credits.
Survivors can also choose between their own retirement benefit and the survivor benefit — many claim one first and switch to the other later to maximize lifetime income. Widowed spouses with a child under 16 can collect at any age.
Estimate your amount with the survivor benefit calculator and see the coordination options in couples' strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the earliest age for survivor benefits?
60 (71.5% of the deceased's PIA). Widows/widowers caring for a child under 16 can collect at any age.
Can I switch from survivor to my own benefit?
Yes — you can take the survivor benefit and later switch to your own (if higher), or claim your own first and switch to survivor. See couples' strategies.
Does delaying my retirement benefit raise the survivor benefit?
Yes — a larger retirement benefit on your record means a larger survivor benefit for your spouse if you die first.