Survivor Benefits Calculator

Estimate your potential Social Security survivor benefits based on your age and circumstances. This calculator provides a rough estimate—contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 for your exact benefit amount.

This is an Estimate Only

This calculator provides a general estimate based on 2026 rules. Your actual benefit amount may differ. For an accurate calculation specific to your situation, contact the Social Security Administration.

Enter Your Information

You can claim survivor benefits as early as age 60 (or 50 if disabled).

Enter the monthly Social Security benefit your spouse was receiving or would have received at Full Retirement Age. If you don't know this amount, contact the SSA.

Understanding Your Results

Factors That Affect Your Benefit Amount

1. Your Age When You Claim

  • Age 60: You'll receive approximately 71.5% of your spouse's benefit
  • Age 62: You'll receive approximately 81% of your spouse's benefit
  • Full Retirement Age (66-67): You'll receive 100% of your spouse's benefit
  • Any age with children under 16: You'll receive 75% of your spouse's benefit

2. Working While Receiving Benefits

If you're younger than Full Retirement Age and work while receiving benefits:

  • 2026 Earnings Limit: $22,320/year (benefits reduced $1 for every $2 over this amount)
  • Year you reach FRA: $59,520/year limit until month you reach FRA
  • After FRA: No earnings limit

3. Remarriage

  • Remarrying before age 60 (or 50 if disabled) ends your eligibility
  • Remarrying at 60 or older doesn't affect your survivor benefits

4. Your Own Retirement Benefits

You cannot receive both survivor benefits and your own retirement benefits in full. Social Security will pay the higher of the two amounts. However, you can claim one benefit early and switch to the other later to maximize lifetime income.

Next Steps

Ready to Apply?

You cannot apply for survivor benefits online. You must:

Best time to call: Wednesday-Friday, after 10 AM

Documents You'll Need

  • Death certificate or proof of death
  • Your Social Security number and spouse's Social Security number
  • Your birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate
  • Spouse's W-2 or self-employment tax return (most recent year)
  • Children's birth certificates and Social Security numbers (if applicable)
  • Bank account information for direct deposit