When a loved one who worked and paid into Social Security dies, their family may be eligible for survivor benefits, which are monthly payments that help make up for lost income. At Michigan Disability Lawyers, we often encounter families who are unaware they qualify for this important support. Here's what you need to know.
Who can receive survivor benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) pays benefits to certain family members of deceased workers who have earned sufficient work credits:
- Widows and widowers: The qualifying age is 60 (50 if disabled), or any age if caring for a child under 16 or disabled.
- Divorced spouse: If the marriage lasted at least 10 years.
- Children: Unmarried and under the age of 18 (or 19 if still in high school) or had a disability before the age of 22.
- Dependent parents: Age 62 or older and dependent on the deceased for at least half of their life.
How much can you receive?
Survivor payments are based on the deceased worker’s lifetime earnings:
- The surviving spouse who reaches full retirement age may receive up to 100% of the worker's benefit amount.
- Children or a young spouse who cares for children typically receive around 75% of the benefit.
- There is a family maximum (approximately 150-180% of a worker's full benefit) that can limit the total payment if multiple family members qualify.
Key Rules and Timing Tips
You don't have to wait until retirement to qualify for survivor benefits because the deceased worker doesn't have to be retired or already receiving benefits at the time of death. It is important to file promptly because survivor benefits often require a phone or in-person appointment and are not always possible to file online. Remarriage also affects eligibility; if a surviving spouse remarries before age 60 (or age 50 if disabled), they may lose certain benefits. Finally, be sure to check the deceased worker's Social Security earnings records for accuracy, as errors in reported earnings may reduce the amount of benefits the family receives.
How a Michigan Disability Lawyer Can Help
For many Michigan families, disability and survivorship rules often overlap. A disabled surviving spouse may be eligible for benefits as early as age 50 instead of age 60. If the deceased was receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), their record will still count toward survivor benefits. Even families with limited work history may qualify if the worker has at least six recent quarters, or about a year and a half, of work experience.
If a person's parent has died or was receiving Social Security benefits, they may qualify for Disabled Adult Child Benefit if they had a qualifying disability before age 22. For more information, read our Child and Dependent Disability Benefits blog.
Social Security survivor benefits can provide critical financial stability after a loss, but the rules are complicated. At the Michigan Disability Lawyers Association, we help ensure families receive every dollar they deserve. Our team helps clients determine eligibility, assists them in obtaining disability findings from the Social Security Administration, or both.
Contact us today to receive a free case evaluation by submitting a form online or calling (800) 949-2900.
