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Notice: During the government shutdown, continue using your 2025 health insurance plan and providers. Use this site to apply for and enroll in 2026 coverage during Marketplace Open Enrollment.
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Social Security survivors benefits

Social Security benefits based on your record (if you should die) that are paid to your:
  • Widow/widower age 60 or older, 50 or older if disabled, or any age if caring for a child under age 16 or disabled before age 22
  • Children, if they are unmarried and under age 18, under 19 but still in school, or 18 or older but disabled before age 22; and
  • Parents if you provided at least one-half of their support.
An ex-spouse could also be eligible for a widow/widower's benefit on your record. A special one-time lump sum payment of $255 may be made to your spouse or minor children.