The rules are a bit complicated, but Social Security survivors benefits are typically only available to widows or widowers who are aged 60 or older, though those with disabilities may receive it at age 50 or older. Spouses of any age are eligible for benefits if they're the caregiver of the deceased's child under the age of 16 or a child with disabilities. The deceased spouse must have also worked a certain number of years, which is calculated using a credit system based on income and years—though nobody needs to have worked more than 10 years to receive benefits.