Connecticut Survivor Benefits - Application

A widow or widower age 60 or older (age 50 or older if disabled) is eligible for Social Security survivor benefits provided the couple was married at least nine months. There is no age limit for a widow or widower caring for dependent children under age 16.

Proof of deatheither from a funeral home or death certificate; Your Social Security number, as well as the deceased workers; Your birth certificate; Your marriage certificate, if you are a widow or widower;

There is no time limit to file for a widow or widower benefit. These benefits will actually grow if you delay claiming them until you reach full retirement age.

It takes 30 to 60 days for survivors benefits payments to start after they are approved, according to the agency's website.

If the eligible surviving spouse or child is not currently receiving benefits, they must apply for this payment within two years of the date of death. For more information about this lump-sum payment, contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213 ( TTY 1-800-325-0778).

If you need to report a death or apply for benefits, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You can speak to a Social Security representative between am pm. Monday through Friday. You can also visit your local Social Security office.

There's no earnings limit beginning with the month you reach full retirement age. Also, your earnings will reduce only your benefits, not the benefits of other family members. What if I remarry? Usually, you can't get widow's or widower's benefits if you remarry before age 60 (or age 50 if you're disabled).

The earliest a widow or widower can start receiving Social Security survivors benefits based on age will remain at age 60. Widows or widowers benefits based on age can start any time between age 60 and full retirement age as a survivor.