Survivor benefits protect a surviving spouse's income after a loss. Here is who qualifies and how to maximize them.
Who qualifies for Social Security survivor benefits?
A surviving spouse generally qualifies for survivor benefits if married at least nine months before the death, or immediately if the death was accidental or in the line of military duty. You can claim a reduced benefit as early as 60, or 50 if you are disabled. Surviving divorced spouses married at least 10 years, dependent children under 18, and dependent parents may also qualify. A surviving spouse caring for the deceased's child under 16 can claim at any age. The amount can reach 100% of what the deceased was receiving or had earned.
How can a survivor maximize benefits?
Survivor benefits offer a powerful strategy: you can claim one benefit first and switch to the other later. For example, you might take a reduced survivor benefit at 60 and let your own retirement benefit grow to 70, then switch to your larger own benefit, or the reverse. Survivor benefits do not earn delayed credits past full retirement age, so there is no reason to wait beyond then for the survivor portion. These decisions are complex and irreversible, so review them carefully. A 1-800-MEDIGAP advocate can help you understand the tradeoffs.