Survivor Benefits
How to Choose Between Widow Benefits and Your Own Social Security Retirement
Verified against SSA POMS as of July 29, 2026
The short answer
Key decision factors for choosing between widow(er) benefits and own retirement benefits include age, benefit amounts, and filing timing. Generally, dual entitlement laws allow receiving a higher benefit when entitled to both, but specifics about calculations and age-related reductions are crucial.
Retirement Benefit Considerations
You are eligible for your own retirement benefits at age 62 or later, contingent on your earnings record. It's critical to compare this with potential widow(er)'s benefits to determine which yields a higher payment. Widow(er)'s benefits could be reduced if you choose early retirement on your own record. Dual entitlement may apply if both benefits cannot be received simultaneously.
RS 00207.002 View source ›Eligibility for Widow(er)'s Benefits
To qualify for widow(er)'s benefits, you must generally be at least age 60, or age 50 if you are disabled. Your late spouse must have died fully insured. If the deceased spouse received reduced retirement benefits, your widow(er)'s benefit will also be reduced. Refer to eligibility criteria in 20 CFR 404.335 for detailed requirements, including conditions under which remarriage affects benefit entitlement.
20 CFR 404.335 View source ›Impact of Remarriage on Benefits
Widow(er)'s benefits generally require the recipient to be unmarried. However, remarriage after age 60 does not affect eligibility for widow(er)'s benefits. This policy encourages careful planning and consideration of marital status when deciding on benefits.
RS 00207.003 View source ›Dual Entitlement Rules
When eligible for widow(er)'s benefits and retirement benefits on your own record, you may only receive the higher of the two. Since deemed filing does not apply to survivor benefits, you are able to restrict your application to the lower benefit and switch to the higher benefit at a later time. It is crucial to evaluate each benefit to prioritize based on age, potential reductions, and applicable entitlement rules. Social Security has a tool called the Benefit Matrix which lists your own retirement benefit and survivor benefit at each age for an easy comparison of benefits at different ages. For example, a widow like Beth might choose to take her survivor benefit as early as age 60 allowing her own retirement benefit to grow and accrue delayed retirement credits (DRCs) until age 70. At that point, she can switch to her primary benefit, potentially maximizing her overall Social Security income.
RS 00207.002 View source ›Social Security Filing Strategy
Your filing strategy can significantly affect benefit amounts. Filing for widow(er)'s benefits first and delaying retirement benefits, or vice versa, could maximize lifetime benefits. Each individual's situation may vary based on their late spouse's benefits. Requesting the Benefit Matrix will help make the best filing decision.
NL 00711.040 View source ›Frequently asked
Can I collect my widow(er)'s benefit and my retirement benefit?
No, you can only receive the higher of the two benefits, not both at the same time.
At what age can I start collecting widow(er)'s benefits?
Widow(er)'s benefits can generally start at age 60, or age 50 if you are disabled, given other eligibility criteria are met.
Does remarriage affect my eligibility for widow(er)'s benefits?
Remarriage after age 60 does not affect eligibility for widow(er)'s benefits.
How are widow(er) benefits affected if my late spouse received reduced Social Security benefits?
If your spouse received reduced benefits before passing, your widow(er) benefits may also be reduced based on those calculations.
Should I file for widow(er)'s benefits or my retirement benefits first?
Consider which benefit offers a higher monthly amount and the timing of the filing. Consulting with Social Security can help determine the best strategy.