4/1/09

some survivor benefits you may not know about



If your spouse/partner has died or you’re a widowed mom or dad, you’re probably already familiar with your basic Social Security benefits.

But did you know that if your divorced spouse has died, you can receive benefits as a widow/widower? The marriage has to have lasted 10 years or longer and you must be age 60 or older (or age 50 if you are disabled).

Under certain circumstances, the following survivors may also qualify for benefits:

* Step-children, grandchildren, or adopted children.

* Dependent parents age 62 or older.

Check out http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ for more information. The site lists the paperwork you’ll need and how to apply.

If you were in a same-sex marriage or domestic partnership, your state may also offer survivor benefits. Go to http://www.findlaw.com/, to get further information about your particular state’s provisions. This is generally a great site for answers about a wide variety of legal issues.

Never assume you have no rights or benefits. Always check it out!

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