What about Social Security benefits?

A surviving spouse often has claim to both monthly support payments as well as certain death benefits. In addition, benefits may be permitted for children under 18 years of age. These benefits are NOT AUTOMATIC and must be claimed by contacting your nearest office listed in the telephone book under "United States Government - Health, Education and Welfare Department - Social Security Administration." When making a claim, be sure to request a list of the documents you will be required to produce in order to avoid time delays.

An annual check with the Social Security Administration is recommended to insure that the proper amounts from your paychecks are being credited to your account. To obtain your Statement of Earnings record, simply drop them a postcard stating the nature of your request, name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, and signature.