At what age can a widow or widower receive reduced Social Security benefits as a survivor?

A widow or widower can receive reduced Social Security benefits as a survivor starting at age 60. This provision allows individuals who have lost their spouse to access benefits earlier than the standard retirement age and provides financial support during a challenging time. Survivors can choose to take the benefit as early as age 60, but doing so results in a reduced amount compared to what they would receive if they waited until their full retirement age. Full retirement age varies depending on the birth year, but typical benefits are maximized if claimed later.

While options like age 55, 62, or 65 may seem plausible, they do not align with the Social Security Administration's guidelines for survivors. Age 62 is the minimum age for retirees to claim their own retirement benefits, while 65 relates to the historical age for Medicare eligibility, but does not apply to survivor benefits in this context.