SWIFT Act

Eligibility for Unreduced Benefits at Any Age: Section 2 removes the requirement that disabled widows, widowers, and surviving divorced spouses must be between the ages of 50 and 60 to receive survivors benefits, and it eliminates benefit reductions for those claiming benefits before retirement age. This means disabled surviving spouses can receive full benefits regardless of age without facing financial penalties for claiming early.

Increase in Child's Age Limit for Child-in-Care Benefits: Section 3 amends section 202(s)(1) of the Social Security Act to raise the age limit for child-in-care benefits from age 16 to age 18, or age 19 for full-time elementary or secondary school students. This provides extended financial support to families caring for older children.

Protection of Current Benefits (Holding Harmless): Section 5 states that any additional income resulting from increased or new Social Security benefits under this Act will be disregarded when determining an individual's continued eligibility and benefit amounts for other Federal, State, or local programs. This ensures that recipients do not lose access to other vital assistance programs simply because their survivors benefits increased.

Information Access for Surviving Spouses: Section 6 requires the Commissioner of Social Security to publish and mail an informational booklet to known widows, widowers, and surviving divorced spouses within 30 days of being informed of an individual's death. This helps survivors understand how to claim benefits, manage benefit timing, and contact the Social Security Administration.