Hi Freqflyer - go o-line to the SS website. There are a great many things you can do on-line. I applied for SS and did some other things. If you don't have access computer, many libraries do and will help you. Good Luck!
I just called SS and got an apointment at the local office for Mom. The visit was quick and easy. just needed his bith cert, marriage lisc. and death cert. Mom got the upgraded amount in about 2 months. But make the apt.. that took about 2 months until we were seen
You can usually get them from the county recorder's office in the county where the person was born. Some places will let you order by phone or mail. The last time I was in my home town, I got several copies of mine. My dad didn't have a birth certificate when he was approaching retirement and applying for social security; he called the county recorder in his birthplace and they sent him a form. He got a copy of the page in a family Bible that mentioned his birth, and got an affidavit from his mom, who was still alive in her 90's. I think my birth certificate has his birthdate on it as well, and he submitted it that as well, if I recall, they asked for three documents that mentioned the same information.
In order to collect your husbands SS you need to have been married at least 10 years. If so, when he transitions call SS but they are usually notified anyway of someones passing.
When your husband does pass, call your local social security office and ask them what is the current process that you need to follow.
The last time I was in my home town, I got several copies of mine.
My dad didn't have a birth certificate when he was approaching retirement and applying for social security; he called the county recorder in his birthplace and they sent him a form. He got a copy of the page in a family Bible that mentioned his birth, and got an affidavit from his mom, who was still alive in her 90's. I think my birth certificate has his birthdate on it as well, and he submitted it that as well, if I recall, they asked for three documents that mentioned the same information.