4 steps to know who can receive Social Security survivor benefits

Understanding who can receive Social Security survivor benefits is essential. Eligible recipients include spouses, former spouses, children and dependent parents who meet the relationship and financial dependency rules. Spouses generally qualify at age 60 or older, or between 50 and 59 if disabled, while former spouses must have been married for at least 10 years. Children may receive benefits if they are under 18, full-time students aged 18–19, or disabled before age 22. The benefit amount is based on the worker’s earnings record, ranging from 71.5% to 100% depending on the age at which survivors claim.