The amount of the benefit payable to the surviving spouse is one-half of your accrued basic retirement benefit. The benefit will begin at the time you would have reached age 62, or sooner if your survivor elects a reduced benefit. For your spouse to be eligible, you must not take a refund of your contributions. Social Security benefits are also payable to survivors of employees who meet the Social Security requirements. These benefits are based on the Social Security benefit for which the employee was eligible.
Benefits vary based on the age and situation of the survivor.
The survivor benefits under FERS and CSRS differ substantially. Your individual circumstances will determine which system is better for you. Also, you need to remember that FERS rules apply to all of your survivor benefits.