Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning (ADFP) Practice Test

What is true regarding Social Security survivors benefits?

1. Available to surviving family members of a deceased eligible worker

2. Can only be claimed by spouses

3. Are meant to benefit the worker only

4. Limited to those with no other income

The correct answer is: Available to surviving family members of a deceased eligible worker

The statement highlighting that Social Security survivors benefits are available to surviving family members of a deceased eligible worker is accurate because these benefits are designed to provide financial support not only to a deceased worker’s spouse but also to other dependents such as children and sometimes even parents. The Social Security Administration (SSA) outlines specific eligibility criteria for these benefits, allowing various family members to receive payments based on the worker's earnings record. This structure ensures that in the event of a worker's death, their family can still maintain a certain level of financial stability. The other options do not fully capture the scope of Social Security survivors benefits. While spouses are indeed eligible for these benefits, the statement that they can only be claimed by spouses is too restrictive. Survivors benefits can also be accessed by children and certain other dependents. Likewise, the notion that these benefits are solely intended to support the worker is misleading, as they are specifically aimed at aiding the surviving family members. Additionally, survivors benefits are not limited to individuals with no other income, as they can be received alongside other income sources, subject to certain rules and income limits.