Things to Know About Widow Benefits Laws in Florida

Losing a spouse is a deeply emotional experience that can leave widows in Florida grappling with immense grief. This emotional turmoil is often compounded by significant financial challenges. Widows may face a sudden decrease in household income or the burden of managing finances previously handled by their spouse. 

There is help available, however. Several government benefit programs can offer Pensacola area residents much-needed support during this difficult time. The Social Security Administration, for instance, offers survivor benefits for spouses. Other programs may offer assistance with healthcare costs, housing, and other necessities.  

Social Security Survivor Benefits 

Social Security survivor benefits serve as a crucial financial lifeline for many widows in Florida. These benefits, paid out by the Social Security Administration (SSA), are available to eligible surviving spouses and dependent children of deceased workers who were covered under Social Security. 

Two main types of survivor benefits are offered: 

• Spousal Benefit: Surviving spouses aged 62 or older are generally eligible for a spousal benefit equal to the deceased spouse’s full retirement benefit amount. Younger surviving spouses with dependent children may also qualify. 
• Child’s Benefit: Unmarried children under 18 (or up to 19 if still attending high school) of the deceased worker may be eligible for a child’s benefit. Dependent children who are disabled or become disabled before age 22 may also qualify. 

Eligibility for Social Security survivor benefits depends on several factors, including the surviving spouse’s age at the time of the worker’s death, the marriage duration, the presence of dependent children, and the deceased’s earnings history and Social Security contributions. 

To learn more and determine your eligibility, visit the SSA’s survivor benefits webpage at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/survivors/ or call 1-800-772-1213. 

Additional Florida Survivor Benefits 

While Social Security survivor benefits provide significant support, they may not fully replace the deceased spouse’s earnings. Florida offers additional benefits that may be available to surviving spouses, depending on their circumstances: 

• Florida Retirement System (FRS) survivor benefits: If your deceased spouse was a state employee covered by the FRS pension plan, you may qualify for survivor benefits. The type and amount depend on your spouse’s service history and your marital status at the time of death. Visit the Florida Retirement System for more information. 
• Workers’ compensation survivor benefits: If your spouse died due to a work-related accident or illness, you may be eligible for survivor benefits from the Florida workers’ compensation program. These benefits can help cover lost wages and funeral expenses. Contact the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for more details. 

Private Survivor Benefits 

In addition to government programs, private sources may offer survivor benefits to widows, typically through employer-sponsored benefits plans or life insurance policies: 

• Employer-provided benefits: Many employers offer benefits to surviving spouses, such as continuation of health insurance coverage, COBRA benefits, or life insurance payouts. Contact your deceased spouse’s former employer’s human resources department to learn about any specific benefits they may offer. 
• Life insurance: If your spouse had a life insurance policy naming you as the beneficiary, you are likely entitled to a payout upon their death. The amount depends on the policy terms. 

Legal and Financial Considerations 

Navigating the legalities and finances of widowhood can be overwhelming. Consulting with a Pensacola attorney who specializes in estate planning and Social Security Disability (SSD) is invaluable. An experienced attorney can help you: 

• Understand your eligibility for various benefits. 
• Ensure you receive everything you are entitled to. 
• Guide you through the application process. 
• Advise on important legal matters related to your spouse’s estate, such as probate and inheritance. 

Plan for Peace of Mind: Get Informed About Survivor Benefits Now 

Facing the Loss of a Spouse 

The loss of a spouse is a deeply emotional experience, and the financial challenges that arise can add significant stress. Widows in Florida may be eligible for various benefits, including Social Security survivor programs and payouts from private life insurance policies. However, understanding these options and navigating the application process can feel overwhelming during this difficult time. 

Considering Your Next Steps 

An experienced estate planning or probate attorney can be a valuable resource for widows in Florida. These legal professionals can help you understand the survivor benefits you may be entitled to, including Social Security benefits and any rights under your spouse’s estate plan. They can also guide you through the application process and ensure you receive the financial assistance you deserve. This can provide much-needed peace of mind and allow you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life. 

Contact a Knowledgeable and Compassionate Pensacola, FL SSD Lawyer

Attorney Quin Baker understands the specific needs of widows facing financial uncertainty. Our team has extensive experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of survivor benefits and estate matters, with a deep understanding of Florida’s legal landscape. We offer personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation, ensuring you receive all the support you deserve during this challenging time.  

If you are a widow in the Pensacola, FL area struggling to understand and secure the benefits you deserve, consider reaching out to Quin Baker. Contact us today to schedule and learn how we can help you protect your future.