What is the term for the interval between the day the youngest child of a family turns 16 and before the surviving spouse turns age 60?

The term for the interval between the day the youngest child of a family turns 16 and before the surviving spouse turns age 60 is commonly referred to as the "blackout period." This is a specific timeframe relevant in the context of Social Security benefits, particularly for survivors' benefits.

During the blackout period, the surviving spouse does not receive any social security benefits based on the deceased spouse's earnings record. This interval is significant as it marks a gap in benefit eligibility that affects the financial situation of the surviving spouse and their dependent children. The purpose of labeling this interval as a "blackout period" is to highlight the void of support available to the surviving spouse until they reach the age of eligibility for retirement or survivor benefits.

Understanding this term is crucial for anyone involved with Social Security Disability Insurance or survivors' benefits, as it emphasizes the importance of timing and eligibility in the administration of benefits to families after the death of a breadwinner.