Social Security deceased husband
Hello Terry,
I saw you on the news the other day and said to myself “this could be the help I’m looking for”. I have a question on how to collect social security from my husband who passed away in November 2020. People tell me I should be able to get social security benefits but I have no clue where or who to see about doing this. I feel totally helpless as my husband always handled all bills, taxes etc. and now I’m trying to do things on my own. Do I have a right to collect death benefits (if I’m saying that correctly)? If so how do I do this? I reallly appreciate your help.
Terry Says
If you were married at the time of his passing, you are entitled to ALL of his monthly social security benefit.
What happened to the monthly checks after he passed? Did you notify SS — and did they stop paying those benefits? If that’s what happened, and they didn’t suggest you could get his benefit, you might be entitled to a year or more of past benefits!
I’m assuming you don’t get Social Security benefits on your own record. If you do, they should give you the difference between yours and your late husband’s, assuming his benefit was larger than your own.
Either way, this is the time to contact SS and inquire. You will likely need his death certificate, or your report of his death. They might even ask for proof of your marriage. You should have both of your SS numbers ready.
Call them at 1-800-772-1213
