Social Security Survivor Benefits
What are Social Security survivor benefits for a surviving spouse?
Short answer
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…
What this usually means
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 you are disabled). If you are caring for their child under age 16, benefits are available at any age.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.