Social Security Death Benefits
My father in law passed away and had literally no money and no life insurance. He has been divorced from my husband's mom for 29 years. Since she was married to him for 10, she applied to receive his social security and was awarded it. Is this possible? Can the funeral costs be paid from that money?
Re: Social Security Death Benefits
She is not receiving 'his' Social Security. Nor is this a death benefit.
She is likely receiving her retirement benefit that is based on his earnings record. This is available for many divorced spouses but not all.
She could receive this benefit even if he were still alive, so long as she meets other requirements. See web link for specifics: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/yourdivspouse.htm
The monthly benefit is hers to do with as she wishes.
Re: Social Security Death Benefits
She is not receiving 'his' Social Security. Nor is this a death benefit.
She is likely receiving her retirement benefit that is based on his earnings record. This is available for many divorced spouses but not all.
She could receive this benefit even if he were still alive, so long as she meets other requirements. See web link for specifics: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/yourdivspouse.htm
The monthly benefit is hers to do with as she wishes.
Re: Social Security Death Benefits
She is not receiving 'his' Social Security. Nor is this a death benefit.
She is likely receiving her retirement benefit that is based on his earnings record. This is available for many divorced spouses but not all.
She could receive this benefit even if he were still alive, so long as she meets other requirements. See web link for specifics: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/yourdivspouse.htm
The monthly benefit is hers to do with as she wishes.
