Social Security Survivor Benefits for a Divorced Spouse
There’s an important difference between a Social Security benefit based on a living ex-spouse’s record and a survivor benefit if that ex-spouse later passes away. They’re often confused, but the rules — especially around remarriage — are genuinely different.
The 10-Year Marriage Rule Still Applies
As with the divorced-spouse benefit, a marriage of at least 10 years is generally required to qualify for a survivor benefit based on an ex-spouse’s record.
The Age Threshold Is Lower Than the Standard Divorced-Spouse Benefit
You may be eligible as early as age 60 (age 50 if you have a qualifying disability) — younger than the age-62 minimum that applies to the regular divorced-spouse benefit.
The Remarriage Rule Works Differently Here — and More Favorably
For the regular divorced-spouse benefit, remarrying generally ends your eligibility. For a survivor benefit, remarriage at or after age 60 (or 50, if disabled) does not end your eligibility to claim survivor benefits on a deceased ex-spouse’s record. Remarrying earlier than that, however, generally does.
Your Ex-Spouse’s Remarriage Doesn’t Affect Your Claim
You can qualify for a survivor benefit as a divorced spouse even if your late ex-spouse remarried before their death.
Why This Matters for Later-Life Planning
Survivor benefits can be a meaningful part of long-term financial security after a long marriage ends, particularly for a spouse who earned less or stepped back from the workforce during the marriage.
This article is general information about a federal benefit program, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Sun State Mediator does not calculate benefit eligibility or amounts.
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