What happens to Social Security spousal payments if one of the spouses passes away?
In the event of such an awful event, your benefits might be affected. You might get a Social Security survivor benefit, which is oftentimes equal to the full benefit your spouse was receiving.
A surviving spouse might receive SS benefits depending on their age, with benefits becoming available between the ages of 60 and retirement. Also, if the deceased spouse was bound to receive higher benefits, the widower can opt to receive the higher amount in their place. If you got divorced and your ex passed away, you might still be able to claim survivor benefits if you’re 60 or older.
To be eligible, the marriage must have lasted for at least 10 years. If your spouse passes away and you remarry, the benefits will change. For example, if you remarry before turning 60, you won’t be eligible to collect those benefits based on your deceased spouse’s record. If you get remarried at 60 or older, you still have plenty of choices to make. You might collect survivor benefits from your deceased spouse.
Also, you could let your own benefits grow until you reach 70. In case your personal benefit is much higher than the survivor’s benefit, you have the option of changing your mind and receiving your own benefits.
What’s your experience with spousal benefits? If you want to share your own take on this intricate matter, we’re waiting for your opinions and stories! Just write it down in the comment section and let us know what you think! Now, since we’re discussing Social Security, here’s another interesting topic you might be interested in reading: 10 Things Retirees Hate About Social Security
