Legal Question in Social Security Law in Pennsylvania

survivor benefits-social security

I have three children who have been receiving survivor benefits since 1998 when their dad died. We were married at the time. I have never received a widow's benefit since I think the maximum family benefit was divided among the 3 children. Now my daughter will be turning 18 and her benefits will end. Can I apply to have her portion divided among the other 2 children or as a widow benefit? Also, since the children have received a survivor benefit, am I still entiled to my late husband's social security benefit at the age of retirement?


Asked on 8/05/08, 4:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Randall Selagy F. Randall Selagy, P.C.

Re: survivor benefits-social security

SSA should contact you when your child approches 18 to advise you of its planned payment action. But it is best to contact your local office as sometimes it is too busy to contact you.

If you are the unmarried (ie not re-married) widow you may:

- receive full benefits at full retirement age for survivors or reduced benefits as early as age 60.

- begin receiving benefits as early as age 50 if you are disabled.

- receive survivors benefits at any age if you take care of the deceased worker's child who is under age 16.

Select the link below to get additional information:

http://www.ssa.gov/survivorplan/ifyou.htm

http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10084.html

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Answered on 8/05/08, 7:06 pm


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