What are survivor benefits from social security?
Survivor benefits from Social Security are a crucial component of the United States’ social welfare system, designed to provide financial support to surviving family members of deceased workers. These benefits are intended to replace a portion of the deceased worker’s income, ensuring that their loved ones can maintain a certain standard of living even after their loss. In this article, we will explore the various types of survivor benefits available, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for them.
Survivor benefits are available to the deceased worker’s spouse, children, and, in some cases, parents. The primary types of survivor benefits include:
1. Survivor Benefits for Spouses: A surviving spouse may be eligible for survivor benefits if they were married to the deceased worker for at least nine months prior to their death. The surviving spouse can receive a benefit equal to the deceased worker’s full retirement age benefit, or 100% of the deceased worker’s primary insurance amount (PIA), whichever is greater.
2. Survivor Benefits for Children: Children of the deceased worker may also be eligible for survivor benefits. These benefits are available to children under the age of 18, or up to age 19 if they are attending elementary or secondary school full-time. Benefits for disabled children can be extended to age 22 if they are disabled before age 22.
3. Survivor Benefits for Divorced Spouses: Divorced spouses may be eligible for survivor benefits if they were married to the deceased worker for at least 10 years. To qualify, the divorced spouse must have been married to the deceased worker for at least 10 years, have not remarried, and not have remarried before age 60 (age 50 if disabled).
4. Survivor Benefits for Dependent Parents: In certain cases, dependent parents of the deceased worker may be eligible for survivor benefits. These benefits are available to parents who are age 62 or older and were dependent on the deceased worker for at least half of their support.
To apply for survivor benefits, eligible individuals must complete and submit Form SSA-10, “Application for Survivors Benefits.” This form can be obtained from the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or by contacting a local SSA office. It is essential to apply as soon as possible after the worker’s death, as survivor benefits are not retroactive.
Survivor benefits from Social Security can significantly ease the financial burden on families who have lost a loved one. By understanding the types of benefits available, eligibility criteria, and the application process, families can better navigate this challenging time and secure the financial support they need.
