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Program Description

Are you divorced from an ex-spouse who died? If so, you may qualify for benefits as a surviving divorced spouse.

Learn more on the If You Are The Survivor page. You may also want to read the Planning For Your Survivors page.

General Program Requirements

To qualify as a surviving divorced spouse, you must meet the conditions below:

  • Be at least age 60.
  • Were married for at least 10 years
  • Have evidence of a finalized divorce. Be unmarried, unless you remarried after age 60.
  • Are not entitled to a higher Social Security benefit on your own record.

Other terms and conditions may apply.

Application Process

Visit the Surviving Spouse and Surviving Divorced Spouse pages for details on how to apply.

If you want to apply for survivor benefits, call to make an appointment.

To learn about Social Security benefits you may qualify for, use the SSA BEST (Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool). When you complete the questionnaire, you get a list of benefits to review. You can print this page for your records.

To apply for benefits, visit the Apply for Social Security Benefits page. You can also call to learn more about benefits or set up an appointment.

Last Updated: 05/08/2023