Question 12

Social Security survivor benefits are not available for parents of any age who were dependent upon the deceased worker.

Survivor benefits are not granted to parents, regardless of their age, even if they were financially dependent on the deceased worker.

A) a surviving spouse over age 60.

This option is correct because a surviving spouse who is over the age of 60 is eligible for Social Security survivor benefits. This provision aims to support spouses who may face financial challenges after the loss of their partner.

B) children under age 19 who are full-time students.

Children under the age of 19 who are full-time students are indeed eligible for survivor benefits. This is designed to ensure that young dependents have financial support during their education after the death of a parent.

C) a spouse of any age who is caring for children under age 16.

This option is also correct, as a spouse who is taking care of children under the age of 16 qualifies for survivor benefits. This provision recognizes the importance of supporting caregivers who are raising children after the loss of the other parent.

D) parents of any age who were dependent upon the deceased worker.

This option is incorrect because parents, regardless of age, do not qualify for survivor benefits even if they were dependent on the deceased worker. This exclusion is a significant aspect of the Social Security survivor benefits program.

Conclusion

In summary, Social Security survivor benefits are specifically designed to support surviving spouses and children, but do not extend to parents of the deceased worker, which makes option D the correct answer. The other options correctly represent eligible beneficiaries, highlighting the program's focus on immediate family members who are impacted by the loss.