Certain members of a family may be entitled to Social Security benefits when a person dies after working for at least ten years – depending on his or her age at the time of death.
Those entitled to benefits include the widow or widower. He or she will receive full benefits at full retirement age or reduced benefits at the age of 60. If he or she is disabled, the benefits will be paid as early as age 50. In addition, if he or she takes care of the deceased’s child who is under the age of 16, benefits will be paid at any age.
Others entitled include unmarried children under the age of 18 or any age if he or she is disabled. Also included are dependent parents older than 62.
Remarrying can affect your benefits. If you remarry before age 60, you cannot receive benefits. Survivor benefits can be a complex and complicated matter. If someone in your family has died and you believe you are entitled to their Social Security benefits, consult with an experienced Orange County Family Law attorney who knows the process.
