Q. I was granted a Federal survivor’s annuity in 1993 because my husband passed away and had 20 years of service with the federal government. I am 52 and plan to remarry. I know that my survivor annuity will be terminated because I am under 55, but I am unsure as to whether it can be reinstated if my new husband passes away. I have seen this question answered two ways – that it can be reinstated if there is a death or divorce and also that the annuity can only be reinstated if the marriage is terminated by divorce. Which is the correct answer?
A. The survivor annuity can be restored if the marriage ends in divorce, annulment or death. You’ll find the rule at http://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/publications-forms/csrsfers-handbook/c071.pdf. Just scroll to Section 71A2.1-4B.
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For an answer to your question, you’ll have to call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.