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The loss of a spouse can be both emotionally and financially devastating. In this video, we will walk you through how to collect Social Security survivor benefits during this difficult time. As a widow or widower, you may be entitled to receive up to 100% of what your spouse was receiving from Social Security, or what they were entitled to receive if eligible. However, understanding the process is key. First, it's essential to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) promptly after your spouse's passing. This not only prevents benefits from being sent to your late spouse but also allows you to explore your survivor benefit options. To file a claim, you need to have been married to the deceased for at least nine months. Certain exceptions apply, such as accidental death or death during military duty. Applying involves contacting SSA or visiting a local Social Security office. You cannot apply online. Remember, you cannot simultaneously collect your own retirement benefit and survivor benefits; you'll receive the higher of the two, not both. Divorced individuals may also be eligible for survivor benefits, but only if you were married to the deceased for at least 10 years, and you did not remarry before age 60 (age 50 in some cases if you have a disability). Social Security serves as a crucial support system during times of loss. For further information, visit https://www.aarp.org/retirement/social-security/ For more information, visit https://www.aarp.org/retirement/social-security/questions-answers/how-do-survivor-benefits-work.html For more answers, please subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AARPAnswers?sub_confirmation=1 Please consider supporting more content like this by becoming an AARP member: https://www.aarp.org/becomeamember *CHAPTERS* 00:00 Social Security Survivor Benefits 00:31 How to Collect Social Security Survivor Benefits 01:02 Survivor Benefits Eligibility 01:32 Amount of Survivor Benefits 02:00 Survivor Benefits When You're Divorced #aarp #socialsecurity #survivorbenefits - - - - - - Connect with AARP Online: Visit us: http://aarp.org Like us on Facebook: http://facebook.com/AARP Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/AARP AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to helping people ages 50 and older to improve their quality of life as they age. With over 38 million members and growing, we lead positive social change through our extensive product offerings and services.