For a retired couple living on two Social Security checks, the death of a spouse can create an immediate financial shock on top of an already difficult loss. One payment stops, household income can fall substantially, and the surviving spouse may suddenly have to understand survivor-benefit rules they have never needed before. The good news is that Social Security provides monthly survivor benefits to many eligible spouses, but the surviving spouse generally does not simply continue receiving both checks. The amount ultimately received depends on factors including each spouse’s benefit, the survivor’s age, and when benefits are claimed. Here’s everything you need to know about Social Security survivor benefits after a spouse dies.
