What Age Can You Collect Social Security Survivor Benefits?
Social Security survivor benefits are an essential component of the United States’ social security system, providing financial support to surviving family members of deceased workers. Understanding the age at which you can start collecting these benefits is crucial for making informed decisions about your financial future. In this article, we will explore the different age criteria for collecting social security survivor benefits and the factors that may affect your eligibility.
Eligibility for Social Security Survivor Benefits
To be eligible for social security survivor benefits, you must meet certain criteria. First, the deceased worker must have earned enough Social Security credits, which are based on their earnings history. Additionally, the survivor must be a qualifying family member, such as a spouse, child, or parent.
Age Criteria for Collecting Social Security Survivor Benefits
The age at which you can start collecting social security survivor benefits varies depending on your relationship with the deceased worker. Here are the general age criteria:
1. Spouses: A surviving spouse can start collecting survivor benefits as early as age 60. However, if they wait until full retirement age (FRA), which is currently 66 to 67, depending on the year of birth, the monthly benefit amount will be higher.
2. Divorced Spouses: Divorced spouses who were married for at least 10 years and are unmarried can also collect survivor benefits at age 60 or at their FRA, whichever is greater.
3. Children: Children of the deceased worker can collect survivor benefits as early as age 18 if they are enrolled in school. If they are disabled, they can collect benefits as early as age 18, provided they became disabled before age 22.
4. Parents: Surviving parents of the deceased worker can collect survivor benefits if they are age 62 or older. However, if they wait until their FRA, the benefit amount will be higher.
Considerations for Early or Delayed Benefits
It’s important to note that collecting survivor benefits before reaching your FRA will result in a reduced monthly benefit amount. Conversely, delaying the start of your benefits until after your FRA will increase the monthly benefit amount.
Conclusion
Understanding the age at which you can collect social security survivor benefits is crucial for planning your financial future. By familiarizing yourself with the eligibility criteria and age requirements, you can make informed decisions about when to start receiving these benefits. Always consult with a financial advisor or the Social Security Administration to ensure you are maximizing your benefits and planning for a secure retirement.
