Social Security survivor benefits provide financial support to eligible family members of a deceased worker, based on their relationship, age, and the deceased's work record.
These benefits are paid to surviving spouses, former spouses, children, and dependent parents. To qualify, the deceased must have worked long enough under Social Security to earn a certain number of credits. The amount a survivor receives depends on the deceased's average lifetime earnings and the survivor's own age and circumstances. For example, a widow or widower can typically start receiving benefits at age 60, or age 50 if disabled, but payments are reduced if claimed before full retirement age.
Eligibility and payment amounts are determined by the Social Security Administration based on specific rules and individual circumstances.
What are the eligibility requirements for a surviving divorced spouse to receive benefits?
A surviving divorced spouse can be eligible for survivor benefits if the marriage lasted for at least 10 years, and they have not remarried before age 60 (or age 50 if disabled). They must also be at least 60 years old (or 50 if disabled) and not currently married, unless they remarried after age 60 (or 50 if disabled). The deceased ex-spouse must have earned enough work credits. If the surviving divorced spouse is caring for the deceased's child who is under 16 or disabled, they can receive benefits at any age.