If you are the widow or widower of a person who worked long enough under Social Security, you can: Receive full benefits at full retirement age for survivors or reduced benefits as early as age 60.

At what age is a surviving spouse without dependents?

Benefits available for a surviving spouse In general, a widow or widower age 60 or older (age 50 or older if disabled) is eligible provided you were married at least nine months. However, there’s no age limit if you’re caring for dependent children under age 16.

At what age can a widow draw her husband’s Social Security?

age 60
Your widow or widower can get reduced benefits as early as age 60. If your surviving spouse is disabled, benefits can begin as early as age 50. For more information on widows, widowers, and other survivors, visit

What happens to my social security if my spouse dies before full retirement age?

If your deceased spouse DID FILE for benefits BEFORE FULL RETIREMENT AGE, you are entitled to receive what your spouse was receiving or 82.5% of your deceased spouse’s full retirement age benefit.

When do you start receiving survivor benefits after your spouse dies?

One absolute regarding survivor benefits is there is NO advantage to wait to start collecting survivor benefits after you reach your full retirement age. Also, if you are both receiving benefits when one spouse passes away, you cannot continue to collect both benefits.

How is life after the death of a spouse?

Life after death can be difficult for the surviving spouse. The death of a spouse is a tragic life event that can turn anyone’s world upside down. From securing Social Security benefits to updating retirement plans, the period after the death of your spouse is one filled with many tasks.

What’s the percentage of Survivor when a spouse dies?

If you claim survivor benefits between age 60 (50 if disabled) and your full retirement age, you will receive between 71.5 percent and 99 percent of the deceased’s benefit. The percentage gets higher the older you are when you claim.