The widow’s pension exists to mitigate the loss of income caused by the death of a spouse or de facto partner, but not all survivors meet the conditions required to receive it. In 2026, as in previous years, support, granted by Social Security, depends on legal and financial criteria that continue to raise doubts among many Portuguese people.
Who can receive the widow’s pension
According to Caixa Geral de Depósitos (CGD), through its information portal Saldo Positivo, this subsidy is awarded to the surviving spouse or to the person who lived in a de facto union with the deceased beneficiary, as long as the relationship was proven and the residence was in Portuguese territory.
In the case of de facto unions, it is necessary to demonstrate a minimum coexistence of two years until the date of death. Furthermore, the applicant cannot be entitled to another pension of their own, and their gross monthly income must not exceed 40% of the Social Support Index (IAS) value.
How the value is calculated
The amount to be received varies depending on the contributory scheme in which the deceased was enrolled. In the non-contributory regime, the amount of the widow’s pension corresponds to a percentage of the social pension, currently set at around 60%.
In the contributory regime, the calculation depends on the contributory career and the amount the holder earned during his lifetime. The support can also be combined with other social benefits, such as the solidarity supplement for the elderly, as long as it does not exceed the value of the minimum pension under the general scheme.
Where and when to order
The request must be made to Social Security services or through the institution’s online platform. To formalize the process, it is necessary to present documents such as a death certificate, identification of the applicant, proof of address and income, as well as proof of the marital relationship or civil union.
Anyone who submits the application up to six months after the death will be entitled to receive support retroactively to the month following the date of death.
Situations that can lead to loss of rights
Many applications are rejected due to documentation failures, missed deadlines or income above the legal limit.
Social Security services recommend that interested parties request a preliminary simulation before proceeding with the request, in order to confirm eligibility and avoid later surprises.
According to CGD, the widow’s pension ceases if the beneficiary remarries, enters into a new de facto union or becomes entitled to a pension of a higher value. Although the process is bureaucratic, it is essential support for those who have lost their partner and depend on this income to maintain financial stability.
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