Definition
The Survivors Program is a component of the Social Security System designed to provide financial support to the eligible family members of a deceased worker. This program ensures that the family members, particularly spouses, children, and sometimes parents, receive a lump-sum payment and/or ongoing monthly benefits to help replace lost income due to the worker’s death. The specific benefits and eligibility criteria can vary, but the overarching goal is to offer economic protection to survivors during a period of financial vulnerability.
Examples
- Lump-Sum Death Payment: A one-time payment of $255 to the surviving spouse or children of a worker who had earned Social Security credits.
- Monthly Benefits to Surviving Spouse: If a surviving spouse is aged 60 or older (or 50 or older if disabled), they are eligible for monthly survivor benefits.
- Benefits for Dependent Children: Children under the age of 18, or up to 19 if attending elementary or secondary school full-time, can receive survivor benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who qualifies as an eligible survivor under the Survivors Program?
A: Eligible survivors typically include the widow or widower, minor or disabled children, and sometimes dependent parents of the deceased worker who paid into Social Security.
Q: How do I apply for survivors benefits?
A: Applications can be made by contacting the Social Security Administration (SSA) either online or via a visit to a local Social Security office. Required documentation includes proof of death, Social Security numbers, and proof of relationship.
Q: Can a divorced spouse receive survivors benefits?
A: Yes, a divorced spouse can receive benefits if the marriage lasted at least 10 years and they meet other standard eligibility criteria.
Q: What factors influence the amount of survivor benefits received?
A: The amount is generally based on the deceased worker’s earnings record and the age and relationship of the survivor.
Q: Are survivor benefits subject to income tax?
A: Yes, survivor benefits can be subject to federal income tax depending on the total income of the beneficiary.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Social Security Credits: The accumulation of earnings-based credits required to qualify for Social Security benefits, including survivors benefits.
- Spousal Benefits: Monthly benefits paid to a living spouse based on the worker’s earnings record.
- Child’s Benefits: Monthly payments made to the minor or disabled children of an eligible Social Security recipient.
- Disability Benefits: Social Security benefits paid to workers or survivors who meet specific criteria related to disability.
Online Resources
- Social Security Administration Survivors Benefits
- National Academy of Social Insurance
- AARP: Applying for Social Security Survivors Benefits
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Social Security For Dummies” by Jonathan Peterson
- “Get What’s Yours – Revised & Updated: The Secrets to Maxing Out Your Social Security” by Laurence J. Kotlikoff, Philip Moeller, and Paul Solman
- “A Parent’s Guide to Social Security” by David L. Hoffman
Fundamentals of Survivors Program: Social Security Basics Quiz
Thank you for learning about the Social Security Survivors Program and for tackling our informative quiz. This information empowers survivors with the knowledge needed for financial stability during challenging times.
