What happens to Social Security benefits when a spouse passes away?

A surviving spouse at Full Retirement Age is entitled to 100% of the deceased worker's monthly benefit. Early survivor benefits can begin as early as age 60 (or age 50 if disabled) at a reduced rate (71.5% to 99%).

Can a divorced spouse claim spousal or survivor benefits?

Yes, provided the marriage lasted at least 10 consecutive years, the claimant is currently unmarried (if under age 60), and is at least age 62 (or age 60 for survivor benefits).

USAUpdated for 2026retirement

Social Security Spousal & Survivor Benefit Calculator 2026

Calculate statutory SSA spousal benefits (up to 50% of spouse's PIA) and widow/widower survivor benefits (up to 100%), with early claiming reductions from Full Retirement Age (FRA).

Social Security & Welfare Retirement & Pensions Family & Children Benefits & Allowances

Calculated Result

Total Estimated Monthly Benefit Received

$1,500

Calculator Inputs

Primary Earner Spouse PIA (Monthly Benefit at FRA)

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Claimant's Own PIA (Monthly Benefit on Own Record)

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Benefit Program Type

Claimant's Age at Claim Initiation

Total Estimated Monthly Benefit Received

$1,500

Annualized Benefit Total

$18,000

Spousal Top-Up Above Own Record

$700

Full Spousal Benefit at FRA (50% of PIA)

$1,500

Combined Monthly Household Living SSA Income

$4,500

Spousal benefits are capped at 50% of the working spouse's Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) at FRA. Survivor benefits provide up to 100% of the deceased spouse's actual monthly benefit.

Official Statute: Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. § 402(b), (c), (e), (f) - Spousal & Widow/Widower Survivor Insurance Benefits)Last Verified: 2026-09-04

Calculation Methodology

Maximum Spousal Benefit at FRA = Primary Earner PIA * 50%. Net Spousal Top-Up = max(0, Max Spousal - Own PIA). Early Claim Reduction applies if claimed before FRA (e.g. at age 62, reduced by approx 30% to 35% of PIA). Maximum Survivor Benefit = Deceased Spouse Monthly Benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Full Retirement Age (FRA, age 67 for those born in 1960 or later), a spouse can receive up to 50% of their spouse's Primary Insurance Amount (PIA). If their own retirement benefit is higher, they receive their own benefit.

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USA

Social Security Spousal & Survivor Benefit Calculator 2026

Calculator Inputs

Calculation Methodology

Frequently Asked Questions

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