Social Security Survivor Benefits Could Boost Payments for Seniors Right Now
Seniors across North Carolina and nationwide need to know the latest on Social Security survivor benefits as new guidance clarifies who qualifies for what after a spouse passes away.
Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor at the AMAC Foundation, urgently explains that surviving spouses do indeed qualify to switch to the deceased partner’s Social Security benefit — but only if it is higher than their own.
“The surviving spouse will receive the larger of the two benefits — their own or the deceased spouse’s — replacing any smaller payment,” Gloor confirmed in a recent advisory shared via The Paper of Montgomery County. This means one benefit is paid out, not both.
What Seniors Need to Do Right Now
If your spouse recently passed and you were not already getting a spousal benefit, it is critical to contact Social Security immediately to apply for survivor benefits. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit the local Social Security office to schedule an appointment.
A one-time $255 lump sum death benefit is also available to survivors, a small but important payment that many overlook.
For seniors who were previously married before their current spouse — as is common among Americans in their late 70s — there’s an important twist. If the ex-spouse’s marriage lasted at least ten years and the ex-spouse is deceased, the surviving spouse may be eligible to claim survivor benefits from either the ex-spouse or the most recent spouse, taking whichever amount is higher.
Only one survivor benefit payment is allowed at a time, so deciding which is most financially advantageous is essential.
Why This Matters Today for Seniors Across the U.S.
Millions of seniors rely on Social Security as a core source of income. Understanding survivor benefits can mean thousands of dollars more per year for widowed spouses in North Carolina and beyond. Missing out on survivor benefits could have severe financial consequences, especially for retirees on fixed incomes.
This update serves as a timely alert for seniors who may be hesitant or unaware that their benefits might rise substantially after a partner’s death.
For more detailed guidance, Gloor recommends reading the AMAC Foundation’s in-depth article: “Demystifying Social Security Survivor Benefits” available online. The foundation also offers a free advisory service for questions at 1.888.750.2622 or via email at [email protected].
What Happens Next?
Seniors should act quickly to review their Social Security benefits and ensure they are receiving the maximum allowable payments after a spouse’s death. Social Security appointments can fill up, so early scheduling is critical.
Keep in mind that the survivor benefit process can be complex, especially with prior marriages involved. Professional advice from trusted sources like the AMAC Foundation can help navigate these decisions without cost.
North Carolina seniors and households nationwide are encouraged to spread the word—knowing and claiming entitled survivor benefits right now can make a significant difference in financial stability during difficult times.
