My husband passed away and how do I contact social security?
 

Hi all:

It is with much sadness that I tell you that Alan passed away on July 4th. He was on hospice with numerous issues. I hadnt seen him in 4 months due to the nursing home being on lockdown but as soon as he got hospice they let me go to him. I went every single day for 3 weeks. He went down to 120 lbs. He was very very sick with numerous issues. At the end he did not know me but he went peacefully.

So here's my question. He was buried in a jewish cemetery in 3 days. I have been told the health department contacts Social Security. I have tried calling them and asking my questions but can't reach anyone. I need to get my affairs in order and trying to find out how much money I will be getting. Some people have told me that I get some of his check, if he gets more than me, I get his check instead of mine. but I can't ask anyone at social security because the wait time on the phone is over one two hours.

My landlord is selling my house and I have 4 months to leave. I have to move anyway because I am on the second floor and my legs can't do this anymore so I need a walk in. The real estate will help me find a new place. This is very stressful for me. I just need some anwers.

There is no social security office opened because of the covid 19.

Does anyone have a clue what I can do?

thanks much. I'll be announcing his passing on the neuropathy forum.

Melody

Do you think you can call a Social Security office? Hope so.

:icon_sad:

Kitt

Call your local office and they will support you.

Melody, this is the number for National SSA. 800-772-1213

You may find the number for your local office on any recent communications they have sent in the mail?

Also, the funeral director can help you. Take care.

Kitt

The funeral director helped us with a list of things to do, who to contact after dad passed..

Even if you can't get a hold of SS right away, they will apply benefits, adjustments retroactively.

I have called that number till I'm blue in the face. I can't wait on the phone for an hour and forty five minutes. We'll see what happens.

Thanks to all to replied.

Melody

More info on the gov SS website
Survivors Benefits | SSA
Form SSA-1 | Information You Need to Apply for Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Divorced Spouse's Benefits | Social Security Administration

I'm sorry you've lost your husband. Dealing with Social Security is never easy, and when you're coping with a spouse's death, it's ever so much harder.

It's disgraceful but typical that you're having such problems getting through to Social Security.

It looks as if they're strongly urging everyone to use their Website before calling but supposedly if you keep trying, you should eventually get someone who can help. Dealing with Social Security takes a LOT of perseverance.

This link should take you to a section on the SSA Website (June 29, 2020) called "Can SSA help me by phone?"

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) | SSA

Im very sorry to hear about the death of Alan. You have my sincerest condolences.

no need to wait on the phone. you can call the 800 number and use the option of them calling you back at a certain time. it works! probably not the exact time but pretty close + or - 15 minutes