When a parent who is receiving Social Security benefits dies, there are a few key things that happen regarding their Social Security benefits. Here is an overview of what happens and who may be eligible for survivor benefits.
What happens to a deceased parent’s Social Security benefits?
When someone who is receiving Social Security benefits passes away, their Social Security benefits stop in the month of their death. For example, if a parent died on May 15th, their May Social Security benefit would be their final payment. No additional Social Security benefits would be paid out after the month of their death.
Are any survivors eligible for the deceased parent’s benefits?
Yes, certain surviving family members may be eligible for survivor benefits from Social Security based on the earnings record of the deceased parent. Here is an overview of who may qualify:
- Widowed Spouse: A surviving spouse may be eligible for survivor benefits if they are at least 60 years old. Benefits may be reduced if taken prior to the surviving spouse’s full retirement age.
- Divorced Spouse: A divorced spouse may also qualify for survivor benefits on the record of their ex-spouse if the marriage lasted at least 10 years.
- Minor Children: Unmarried children under the age of 18 (or up to age 19 if still attending high school) may receive survivor benefits on a deceased parent’s record.
- Disabled Adult Children: Unmarried adult children who became disabled before age 22 may qualify for lifelong survivor benefits.
- Dependent Parents: In some cases, surviving dependent parents may qualify for survivor benefits if they were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their financial support.
How much are Social Security survivor benefits?
The amount of Social Security survivor benefits depends on the earnings record of the deceased parent and the relationship of the survivor to the deceased. Here are some key points:
- A surviving spouse may receive 100% of the deceased spouse’s basic benefit amount if they wait until full retirement age to claim. If claimed earlier, the amount is reduced.
- Widows/widowers can switch to their own benefits later if their own benefit is higher than the survivor benefit.
- Minor children receive 75% of the deceased parent’s basic benefit amount.
- Disabled adult children receive 75% of the deceased’s basic benefit amount.
- Dependent parents may receive 82.5% of the deceased’s basic benefit amount.
The Social Security Administration calculates the exact benefit amount for each survivor. Benefits are also subject to annual cost-of-living adjustments.
How do survivors apply for Social Security survivor benefits?
Survivors will need to apply with the Social Security Administration to receive benefits. The following steps are required:
- Contact Social Security to report the death of the parent.
- Provide proof of death such as a death certificate.
- Provide birth certificates or other proof of age/relationship for any survivors applying for benefits.
- Apply for survivor benefits by phone, in person, or using the SSA website.
- Submit documentation of dependency if applying as a dependent parent.
It’s a good idea for survivors to apply for benefits promptly after the death of the parent, especially for those relying on the income. Processing times vary depending on each local Social Security office.
Can children receive both survivor benefits and retirement benefits?
Yes, in some cases Social Security allows surviving children to receive both survivor benefits on a deceased parent’s record in addition to retirement benefits on another living parent’s record. Here are some key points on receiving both benefits:
- The total combined benefit is capped at between 150-180% of the higher earner’s benefit.
- The lower benefit is topped up to meet the cap.
- Benefits are adjusted annually as limits change.
- Recipients may switch between benefits later as circumstances change.
So in many cases, a child can receive both benefits simultaneously subject to Social Security limits. It’s best to apply for all benefits the child may be entitled to and Social Security will calculate the amounts.
What if the deceased parent was not receiving Social Security?
Even if the deceased parent was not already receiving Social Security retirement benefits, survivors may still qualify for benefits if the parent worked long enough to qualify for Social Security. Here’s how it works:
- Survivors still need to report the death and provide proof such as a death certificate.
- Social Security will check the deceased parent’s earnings record.
- If the parent worked at least 10 years, survivors may qualify for benefits.
- Benefits are based on the deceased parent’s theoretical benefit if alive.
So even though the deceased parent wasn’t getting benefits yet, the survivors can still apply and receive benefits if the parent’s work history is eligible. Social Security will determine eligibility.
Can a surviving spouse collect both personal and survivor benefits?
Yes, a surviving spouse may be eligible for both their own personal Social Security benefits based on their earnings record in addition to survivor benefits based on their deceased spouse’s earnings. Here’s how this works:
- The spouse can apply for both benefits, but will only receive the higher amount.
- When the spouse reaches full retirement age, they can switch to receiving both benefits.
- The combination is capped at the maximum allowable Social Security benefit.
- The lower benefit is topped up to the maximum.
So a surviving spouse may be able to collect both benefits simultaneously by properly applying and coordinating with Social Security. This can maximize total household benefits.
Do survivor benefits affect retirement benefits later on?
Yes, claiming Social Security survivor benefits can impact eligibility and reductions for retirement benefits later on. Here are some key points:
- Survivors can switch from survivor benefits to their own benefits at full retirement age.
- If survivors claim retirement benefits early, it may be subject to reduction.
- The Windfall Elimination Provision may apply in some cases.
- It’s complex, so consult Social Security to understand the impact.
Survivor benefits provide essential income support, but can also impact retirement benefits down the road. It’s important to consider the long-term effects when coordinating benefits.
Conclusion
When a parent receiving Social Security dies, their benefits stop the month of their death. Eligible survivors including spouses, minor children, disabled adult children, and dependent parents can apply for Social Security survivor benefits based on the parent’s earnings record. The survivor benefit amount depends on the relationship to the deceased and other factors. Proper coordination is required to receive survivor benefits in addition to any other Social Security benefits. Understanding the rules helps maximize income for survivors who rely on these important benefits after the loss of a parent.