The number of credits needed to provide benefits for survivors depends on the worker's age when they die.  No one needs more than 40 credits or ten years of work to be eligible for any Social Security benefit.
You generally will not need to file an application for survivors benefits   We 'll automatically change any monthly benefits you receive to survivors benefits after we receive the report of death
I have another benefit-related issue. What documents would I require?
Please select the benefit you will be applying for from the list below to see what information and documents you may need when you apply