Follow
Share
Find Care & Housing
Was he collecting Social Security? If he was that should now go to you every month. Contact Social security ASAP
Helpful Answer (10)
Reply to Tina1923
Report
StarJoan Nov 20, 2025
Only if he designated that it should go to her at the time he started taking social security. My husband didn't.
(1)
Report
See 1 more reply
Was he a Veteran? Was his illness linked to his military service?
If yes, you would get tax-free DIC.
If he also retired from the military or was diagnosed while serving you would get SBP.
If you are over 60, you can get Social Security.
If you have children 18 or under they get social security and you get it until your youngest turns 16.
Helpful Answer (8)
Reply to Caregiveronce
Report

John, I am so sorry.
Can you tell us more?
How old are you?
Are you phsically able to get out to Senior Centers in your area? If so, that is where I would start for companionship, options, hobbies, ideas.

Think back. When you were a younger working guy what interested you? Nature, Books, Movies, Games, Puzzles, Walking, sketching. What was it you imagined you would do if you only had the time? Political groups? Church groups? etc.

You were a long time caregiving and somewhere in there you lost other definitions. This is natural and normal because caregiving to a spouse pretty much takes up all the time; there's no time to do anything else, even think.

Is there any family? Did you and wife have any friends remaining?

My heart goes out to you. I am so very sorry for your loss. But know that even if you simply go to a facility and volunteer in caregiving--we have posts here from people who would love to have someone to sit with their loved ones companionably at meals-- you would be both finding a reason for being, and eat up some of what must now seem like long days. Animal shelters are crying out for some to sit with dogs or cats and socialize with them, and potential adopters. The world is full of need. I hope you will update us. And most of all, give yourself a bit of time here. Give yourself time. Know that even getting out to your local library, which will order books and films free for you, would give you an opportunity to volunteer or will have classes to attend.
Helpful Answer (8)
Reply to AlvaDeer
Report
Lylii1 Nov 20, 2025
I think she has to find a paying job - she says she has no income and no inheritance.
(2)
Report
Become a paid caregiver, I mean you have the experience
Helpful Answer (7)
Reply to Elliecares
Report

I'm very sorry for your loss. What were your husband's income sources? Was he receiving Social Security? If so, have you checked into spousal benefits?

Could you take your skills and experience from providing care for him, and use them to apply for caregiving jobs? Agencies are often looking for people, or you may be able to find one through Care.com.

Do you have a house together, that you could tap into the equity, or sell and buy a less expensive place?

Let us know how it goes and how you're doing.
Helpful Answer (6)
Reply to MG8522
Report

Can you get Widow's Social Security?. Did he work before getting sick? I received this when my husband passed away 11 years ago from Cancer at 57.
Helpful Answer (5)
Reply to Skelly1230
Report

I'm so sorry for your loss. May you receive peace in your heart and as much rest and help as you need.
Helpful Answer (5)
Reply to Geaton777
Report

How old are you? You should be collecting your husband's social security. There are many jobs you can do from home that are legitimate. You might want to be a paid caregiver or senior sitter in your community.
Helpful Answer (5)
Reply to JustAnon
Report
TouchMatters Nov 20, 2025
Good advice. We all need more information from this writer to ascertain what has been happening over the last 11 years. Something here doesn't add it.
(3)
Report
If you are sixty years old, you are entitled to your husband's Social Security survivor benefits. If you worked before you quit your job, check with social security to see how much you've put into the system. If you have all of your quarters in, you can draw your income if it is more than your survivor's amount. If you haven't reached your full retirement age, you will lose some of your money. So, it may be best to take the survivor's benefit for now and then switch over when you reach your full retirement age. Sign up for a food banks if you are having problems with money.

It sounds like you qualify for all types of benefits. Also, check with your employment office for free job training.
Helpful Answer (5)
Reply to Scampie1
Report

If you have been caring for your husband for over 10 years, you should know where the income was coming for you both. You must have looked ahead to consider when the end was coming for H, and have thought what you were going to do about it,

Could you share the information you have, and the things you have considered?
Helpful Answer (4)
Reply to MargaretMcKen
Report

See All Answers
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter