If Your Widow or Widower Remarries

If your widow or widower remarries before reaching age 60, she or he cannot receive widow or widower benefits on your Social Security record as long as that marriage remains in effect.

If your widow or widower remarries after reaching age 60, she or he will continue to receive benefits on your record.

However, if your surviving widow's or widower's current spouse is a Social Security beneficiary, she or he may want to apply for a benefit on the spouse's record if it would be a higher amount. She or he cannot get both benefits.