Q. I retired and my present benefit is $3,002 per month. What is the survivor benefit?
A. The answer depends on your retirement system. If you are covered by CSRS, your survivor spouse would be entitled to 55 percent of what your current annuity would be if you hadn’t elected a survivor annuity. If you are covered by FERS, it would be 50 percent of what your current annuity would be if you hadn’t elected a survivor annuity.
2 Comments
My wife and I were born July 1954 and August 1953, respectively. We have not filed for Social Security benefits. My wife will not qualify for benefits based on her own work record. I am eligible to use the strategy known as “file and suspend,” so my wife can collect spousal benefits upon turning 66?
For an answer to your question, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.