There is one loophole remaining in Social Security where a surviving spouse can collect one benefit and continue to let the other benefit grow. When you are entitled to a benefit for yourself and your late spouse’s working record, make sure you get the most from Social Security.

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The death of a spouse can be a difficult and emotional time. However, Social Security offers a benefit for widows and widowers to help ease the financial burden that comes with losing a loved one. This benefit is called the Widow’s Survivor Benefit and it’s important to understand how it works.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that a survivor benefit is not automatic. The surviving spouse must apply for it in order to receive it. In addition, the survivor must meet certain criteria in order to be eligible for the benefit.

One of the main requirements is that the deceased spouse must have had enough Social Security credits to qualify for benefits. Social Security credits are earned through work and are required to qualify for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

If the deceased spouse did have enough credits, the surviving spouse can begin to receive the benefit as early as age 60. However, if the surviving spouse is disabled, the benefit can begin as early as age 50.

The amount of the benefit is based on the deceased spouse’s Social Security earnings record. The surviving spouse can receive up to 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefit amount, depending on their age at the time the benefit is claimed.

If the surviving spouse is under full retirement age, the benefit may be reduced if they are also receiving their own Social Security benefit. This is known as the “dual entitlement” rule and is intended to prevent individuals from receiving more than the maximum benefit amount.

It’s also important to note that if the surviving spouse remarries before the age of 60 (or 50 if disabled), they will generally not be eligible for the Widow’s Survivor Benefit. However, if they remarry after that age, they may still be eligible for the benefit.

In summary, the Widow’s Survivor Benefit is a valuable benefit provided by Social Security to help ease the financial burden for widows and widowers. It’s important for individuals to understand the eligibility requirements and to apply for the benefit in a timely manner in order to receive the maximum benefit possible.