There around 5 million widows and widowers receiving social security benefits based on their deceased spouse earning records.
but, how impactful are these benefits for them?
At what age can they receive the benefits?
they can receive reduced benefits as soon as turning 60 or at full retirement age. And if they are disabled, they can receive the benefits as early as age 50.
What's the maximum amount that my family members can get?
There's a limit that varies but generally is between 150 and 180 percent of the basic benefit rate.
if the sum of the benefits payable to your family members higher than this limit?
yes, it is.
then these benefits will be reduced proportionally. The benefits received by disabled family members do not count for this limit.
is there anything else you can tell me about this?
You should know that there are limits on how much survivors may earn while they receive the benefits.
what if my surviving spouse remarries?