I have always been meticulous and thought I had every angle covered with this disease. But, it turns out, in the barrage of information about every little thing regarding ALS, I missed this about Survivor's Benefits from Social Security. I would like for all (spouses) cALS who have these "benefits" to be aware and take note of this for their future's sake!
I misunderstood the information provided on the Social Security website! Now I am in a slight bind, as the life insurance money has not arrived. SS has reversed the payment they sent last month, as my husband died the day before payment. They did increase my sons amount, but that still leaves a LOT lacking. They will not pay ME, until I APPLY for benefits. This was unclear to me on their website. You have to make an appointment to apply and it cannot be done online, although supposedly over the phone is fine. I thought benefits would automatically be recalculated accordingly. NOT!
Heads up: be sure you have plenty of credit cards IN YOUR NAME ONLY before you need them. I only have one and sure could have used some more at this time. I kept putting off applying and I have excellent credit. Stupid, really.
I hope you will make a note of this and keep it in a notebook for future reference, as you will not need the headache at a crucial time in your life!
I misunderstood the information provided on the Social Security website! Now I am in a slight bind, as the life insurance money has not arrived. SS has reversed the payment they sent last month, as my husband died the day before payment. They did increase my sons amount, but that still leaves a LOT lacking. They will not pay ME, until I APPLY for benefits. This was unclear to me on their website. You have to make an appointment to apply and it cannot be done online, although supposedly over the phone is fine. I thought benefits would automatically be recalculated accordingly. NOT!
Heads up: be sure you have plenty of credit cards IN YOUR NAME ONLY before you need them. I only have one and sure could have used some more at this time. I kept putting off applying and I have excellent credit. Stupid, really.
I hope you will make a note of this and keep it in a notebook for future reference, as you will not need the headache at a crucial time in your life!