Ask Larry

What Will My Mom's Benefit Be If My Dad Dies Before Her?

Both my parents are 80. My dad worked 30 years and is getting around $1100 in social security, my mom never worked and is getting $500 spousal benefit—- they are married for over 50 years. If Dad dies what would my never worked mom’s benefit be? And if mom dies, would her $500 spousal benefit stop and Dad would just have his own benefit?

Hi. If your father dies first, your mother's spousal benefits would convert to widow's benefits. Her widow's rate would be essentially equal to your father's monthly benefit rate. If your mother dies first, then her spousal benefits would stop and your father would just continue to draw his normal benefit amount.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
May 4 2023 - 11:48am
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