Ask Larry

My mother's husband began getting spousal benefits at age 65. He gets about $200 a month after his Medicare payment is deducted. My mother collected survivor's benefits from her previous spouse. My mother is dying. Will her husband be eligible for an increase in benefits as a survivor?

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear about your mother.

Her husband wouldn't be eligible for any part of her widow's benefits, but he could be eligible for benefits on your mother's record if she is insured for benefits on her own record, and if the rate payable on her record is higher than the benefits that he currently receives. He should probably check with Social Security when the time comes.

Best, Jerry