Medicare after a spouse dies: what changes and what to do

Survivor Part A eligibility, IRMAA appeals for a drop in income, keeping Medigap, and updating Social Security records after a spouse's death.

Losing a spouse brings paperwork at a hard time. A few Medicare steps can save money.

Steps to take

1. Report the death to Social Security. Survivor benefits may change your income.
2. Check Part A eligibility. If you qualified through your spouse, you keep premium-free Part A as a widow or widower.
3. Request an IRMAA reduction. If your income drops, file form SSA-44 citing death of a spouse as a life-changing event.
4. Review your plans. Your Medigap and Part D plans continue; any household discount may change.
5. Check drug coverage if you were on your spouse's retiree drug plan; losing it gives a Special Enrollment Period; see Special Enrollment Periods.

Help with forms

Caregivers and family members can follow the caregiver paperwork guide.

Questions people ask

Do I keep Part A if I qualified through my spouse?

Yes, as a surviving spouse.

Can IRMAA go down after a spouse dies?

Yes, file SSA-44 with Social Security.

Does my Medigap end?

No, your own policy continues.

Is there an enrollment period if I lose my spouse's plan?

Yes, a Special Enrollment Period.

Independent educational site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the federal Medicare program, or any insurance company. Figures are 2026 amounts published by CMS unless noted; check Medicare.gov for your situation.