All About Social Security Survivor Benefits
As the survivor of a loved one who has passed away, you may be eligible for Social Security Survivor Benefits to help support you and your family during this difficult time. These benefits are designed to provide financial assistance to eligible survivors of workers who have died and can be an important source of support for surviving spouses, children, and other dependents.
What are Social Security Survivor Benefits?
Social Security Survivor Benefits are a type of financial assistance provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to eligible survivors of workers who have died. These benefits are intended to help surviving family members maintain their standard of living after the loss of a loved one's income.
Who is eligible for Social Security Survivor Benefits?
The eligibility requirements for Social Security Survivor Benefits vary depending on the relationship of the survivor to the deceased worker. Generally, the following individuals may be eligible to receive these benefits:
- Surviving spouses: If the deceased worker was married at the time of their death, their surviving spouse may be eligible for benefits if they are at least 60 years old (50 if disabled) and were married to the worker for at least nine months prior to their death.
- Minor children: Children of the deceased worker who are under the age of 18 (or 19 if still in high school) may be eligible for benefits.
- Disabled adult children: Adult children of the deceased worker who became disabled before the age of 22 may be eligible for benefits.
- Dependent parents: Parents of the deceased worker who were dependent on them for at least half of their support may be eligible for benefits if they are at least 62 years old.
What are the amounts of Social Security Survivor Benefits?
The amount of Social Security Survivor Benefits that a survivor is entitled to receive depends on the earnings of the deceased worker and the survivor's own benefit rate. Generally, surviving spouses are entitled to receive the full amount of the worker's benefit if they are at least 60 years old (50 if disabled). If the surviving spouse is younger than 60 (50 if disabled), they may receive a reduced benefit. Minor children and disabled adult children are generally entitled to receive 75% of the worker's benefit rate, while dependent parents may receive 82.5% of the worker's benefit rate or 75% each for both parents.
How do I apply for Social Security Survivor Benefits?
To apply for Social Security Survivor Benefits, you will need to complete an application and provide certain documentation to the SSA. The application process can be done online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. It is important to apply for these benefits as soon as possible after the death of the worker, as there will be a waiting period before benefits are paid.
In conclusion, Social Security Survivor Benefits are a valuable resource for surviving spouses, children, and other dependents of workers who have died. These benefits can provide financial support and help survivors maintain their standard of living after the loss of a loved one's income. If you believe you may be eligible for these benefits, it is important to apply as soon as possible and to gather the necessary documents to support your application which will be death certificate and proof of relationship(marriage certificate).
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Jeremy Raffer, MBA
Director, Partner & Wealth Manager
m. 201-773-4641
e. jeremy.raffer@stewardpartners.com
Steward Partners Global Advisory, LLC
Country Club Plaza
115 W. Century Rd, Suite 145
Paramus, NJ 07652
The views expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Steward Partners or its affiliates. All opinions are subject to change without notice. Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC (“Steward Partners”), its affiliates and Steward Partners Wealth Managers do not provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and your attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
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