I am 67 and just started receiving as benefits based on my deceased former husband. We were married for more than ten years. I can't seem to find an answer to a question. Will the monthly dollar amount stay the same for my entire life?

Hi,

Except for cost of living increases, the answer is likely yes. Survivor benefits are calculated based on the primary insurance amount (PIA) of the deceased worker, which in turn is based on the deceased worker's earnings history.

However, in some cases the family benefit maximum can cause survivor rates to be adjusted due to changes in family composition. Those changes don't apply to divorcee benefits, though, so assuming that's the type of benefit that you are receiving your benefit rate shouldn't change other than for future COLA increases.

Best, Jerry