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Social Security Survivor Benefits
Focused answers for people handling the first days, paperwork, and follow-up steps after a death in California.
Start checklistSurviving spouse, financial predators, and digital estate
What are Social Security survivor benefits for a surviving spouse?Monthly payments based on your deceased spouse's Social Security work record. The amount depends on their earnings history and your age. At full retirement age, you can receive 100% of their benefit. Benefits are available as early as age 60 (50 if…When should I apply for Social Security survivor benefits?As soon as possible — but understand that benefits are not retroactive beyond 6 months in most cases, so do not wait too long. Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office. Bring a certified death certificate, your Social Security…Can I receive both my own Social Security and survivor benefits?Not simultaneously in full. You receive whichever is higher — your own benefit or the survivor benefit — but not both stacked. SSA will calculate which gives you the most and pay accordingly. If your own benefit is higher, you may want…What if I am under 60?If you are caring for the deceased's child who is under 16 or disabled, you can receive benefits at any age. Otherwise, early survivor benefits start at 60 (or 50 if you are disabled). Benefits claimed before full retirement age are permanently…What if I remarry?If you remarry before age 60, you lose eligibility for survivor benefits. If you remarry at 60 or older, survivor benefits continue. If a subsequent marriage ends in death or divorce, you may be eligible for benefits from either marriage. Do not…What is the Social Security lump-sum death payment?A one-time payment of $255 available to surviving spouses who were living with the deceased or receiving benefits on their record. It is not automatic — apply at SSA within 2 years of death. It does not go to adult children unless…What if my spouse had not worked enough to qualify for Social Security?Survivor benefits require the deceased to have worked a minimum number of quarters (typically 40 for full benefits, but fewer may qualify for reduced benefits). If they did not have enough work credits, survivor benefits may not be available. Call SSA to…Can I receive survivor benefits and still work?If you are below full retirement age, Social Security may reduce your benefit if you earn above the annual earnings limit ($22,320 in 2024). Above full retirement age, there is no earnings limit. Benefits withheld due to earnings are not lost —…What if my spouse was already receiving Social Security when they died?You may be eligible for survivor benefits based on their record. If their benefit was higher than yours, you can switch to the survivor benefit. Call SSA — they will calculate what you are entitled to. Any payment received for the month…What if my spouse received Social Security disability (SSDI)?Surviving spouses of SSDI recipients are generally eligible for survivor benefits using the same rules as retirement benefit survivor claims. The benefit amount is based on the deceased's SSDI record. Call SSA to apply — do not assume disability status changes your…