The widow’s pension is designed to mitigate the financial impact caused by the loss of a spouse or de facto partner. Still, not all survivors meet the conditions required to access this support. In 2026, as in previous years, there are still legal criteria and income limits that raise doubts for many Portuguese people.
Who can have access
According to information provided by , the pension is granted to the surviving spouse or to anyone who lived in a stable relationship with the deceased person, as long as this relationship is duly proven and the beneficiary resides in national territory.
In de facto unions, it is necessary to demonstrate a minimum coexistence of two years before death. Furthermore, the applicant cannot benefit from another pension of their own and their gross monthly earnings must not exceed 40% of the Social Support Index (IAS).
How the value is calculated
The amount to be received varies according to the deceased’s contribution regime. In the case of the non-contributory scheme, it corresponds to around 60% of the social pension.
In the contributory regime, the value results from the contributory career and income received by the deceased throughout his active life. This support can be combined with other benefits, such as the solidarity supplement for the elderly, as long as the total does not exceed the minimum pension of the general scheme.
Order and deadlines
The application can be made in person at Social Security services or via the online platform. To proceed with the process, it is necessary to present documents such as a death certificate, identification of the beneficiary, proof of residence and income, as well as proof of the marital relationship or stable union.
If the request is submitted up to six months after death, payment is retroactive to the month following death.
When it can be refused or terminated
There are several situations that can lead to denial of support, namely lack of documentation, failure to meet deadlines or income exceeding the established limit. Therefore, INSS recommends carrying out a preliminary simulation before delivering the order.
On the other hand, the pension ends if the beneficiary remarries, enters into a new stable union or becomes entitled to a higher pension value.
Despite the required procedures, this remains essential support to guarantee some financial stability for those who have lost their partner.
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