The period in which there are no Social Security benefits for the surviving spouse is called what?

The term "blackout period" refers to the time frame during which a surviving spouse does not receive Social Security benefits after the death of the wage earner. This typically occurs when the surviving spouse's own children are no longer eligible for benefits or have reached a specific age. During this period, the surviving spouse may be ineligible to receive widow or widower benefits until they reach a certain age, often 60 (or 50 if disabled).

Recognizing the "blackout period" is crucial for understanding the Social Security benefits landscape for surviving spouses, as it outlines the transition from receiving dependent benefits based on the deceased's earnings to eventually qualifying for their own benefits. Understanding this timeframe can help individuals plan for their financial future after the loss of a partner.