Social Security Survivor Benefits
What if my spouse was already receiving Social Security when they died?
Short answer
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 this usually means
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 of death must be returned; survivor benefits begin the following month.
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.