Social Security Benefits Available to Widow(er)s

In this episode, I discuss potential Social Security Survivor Benefits available to a spouse and other family members after the loss of a loved one. Everyone’s situation is unique in that they will typically have many options when it comes to deciding how and when to apply for these benefits which could be the difference of tens if not hundreds of thousands over a lifetime.

More specifically, I discuss:

• What are Social Security Survivor Benefits? How do you know if you are eligible for Survivor Benefits?
• How are Survivor Benefit amounts determined?
• What are some complications that can affect the benefits you may be entitled to?
• Other than a spouse, what other family members may be able to qualify for Survivor Benefits?
• How the “Family Maximum” can affect benefits paid when multiple dependents are collecting a benefit on a deceased’s record.
• A checklist to review before reaching out to Social Security to apply for Survivor Benefits

Resources:

• Retired-ish Newsletter Sign-Up
• Begin Creating Your Own Financial Map After The Loss of A Loved One
• Free 4-Step Retirement Analysis for Ages 50+
• Ask Cameron A Question!
• Access Resources from This Episode

Cameron Valadez and Planable Wealth are not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Social Security Administration or any government agency. The Social Security Administration provides free Social Security forms, publications, and assistance.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - The Importance of Social Security Survivor Benefits

00:01:35 - Prioritizing Eligibility for Survivor Benefits

00:04:08 - Eligibility Requirements and Considerations

00:06:31 - Determining the Benefit Amount

00:09:32 - Complications and Additional Eligibility

00:16:36 - Importance of Retirement Accounts

00:17:12 - Tax Considerations After Death

00:17:29 - Applying for Survivor's Benefits

00:17:56 - Financial Planning and Consultation

00:19:18 - Additional Resources and Newsletter