Jul
12
2012
By Guest (not verified)
Dad died June, 2012, at the age of 90. I understand that Mom (age 84) may be eligible for 100% of his benefit. If this is true, does her Social Security amount cease and she just receives 100% of his benefit? He was a World War II Veteran serving 3 years in the Pacific. Can she receive a pension for his service?
Switching from retirement to survivor benefits
Yes, you'll want to contact Social Security for your particular case.
In many cases, a widow or widower can begin receiving one benefit at a reduced rate and then, at full retirement age, switch to the other benefit at an unreduced rate. Generally you can only receive the highest single benefit -- not two benefits.
http://www.ssa.gov/survivorplan/onyourown5.htm#a0=1
If one served in the military before 1957, he/she did not pay Social Security taxes, but the SSA will provide special credit for some of the service.
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10017.html