Survivor benefits you lose as a result of remarrying before that age can be reinstated if the later marriage ends because of death, divorce or annulment.

Can you lose Social Security survivor benefits?

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

Can Social Security survivor benefits be saved for college?

Social Security benefits saved in an ordinary investment account may be used for college education expenses. You may deposit your survivor benefits into a savings account or some other type of account that earns a fixed or variable rate of return.

How long do Social Security survivor benefits last?

Social Security Survivor Benefits for Spouses Benefits are for life. A surviving spouse who has a disability can collect benefits as early as age 50. The benefit begins upon the death of the retiree and continues until the surviving spouse is age 65.

What are survivor benefits supposed to be used for?

Survivor benefits can be used to cover day-to-day living expenses that would otherwise have been covered by the deceased person’s income. So going back to the example of a widow with two young children, survivor benefits could be used to pay for housing, utilities, food and other basic expenses.

Who is eligible for Social Security survivor benefits?

Your spouse, children, and parents could be eligible for benefits based on your earnings. You may receive survivors benefits when a family member dies. You and your family could be eligible for benefits based on the earnings of a worker who died. The deceased person must have worked long enough to qualify for benefits.

Who are the survivors of a social security death?

Social Security survivors benefits are paid to widows, widowers, and dependents of eligible workers. This benefit is particularly important for young families with children. This page provides detailed information about survivors benefits and can help you understand what to expect from Social Security when you or a loved one dies.

Can you withdraw from social security if you are a survivor?

If you became entitled to retirement benefits less than 12 months ago, you may be able to withdraw your retirement application and apply for survivors benefits only. If you do that, you can reapply for the retirement benefits later when they will be higher.

Where do I go to claim Social Security survivor benefits?

To begin receiving survivor’s benefits, you must make a claim with the Social Security Administration. Survivor’s benefit’s claims may not be made online. You can start the claims process over the telephone, 1-800-772-1213, or go to your local Social Security office. Making an appointment may reduce your wait time.