Talk of The Villages Florida - View Single Post - Social Security
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Old 05-01-2023, 08:24 AM
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KShowalter KShowalter is offline
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Default SS after Former Spouse's Death

Quote:
Originally Posted by jaj523 View Post
I DID go to the SS web site with my question, and my question was diverted to something called "Just Answer," which put me in direct contact with a CPA who I assumed worked for Social Security. I posed my question, which had to do with collecting a benefit from my former husband should he pass away before I do. I currently get a portion of his retirement pay, which will cease at his death. The supposed CPA asked a couple of questions, which I had already answered in my query (our ages, how long we were married, etc.). I then was informed by "Just Answer" that the service is $5, and I was asked for a credit card. Sensing a scam, I hesitated but since it was only $5, I agreed. He then responded again with the same useless canned answer. I am going to ask for my money back. How can the SS web site respond to a question by sending the inquirer to a pay-for-answer web site? Where can I report this rip off?
My former husband actually did die and was drawing full SS while I was still working last year. I had no idea I would be eligible for his SS. I did apply and started receiving his benefit monthly until I retired in January 2023. Then I had to ask SS to turn his off and begin mine since it was higher.
So the answer to your question is as long as you were married at least 10 years and you were born before 1955 (I think) you would qualify but you must apply for the benefit! I had to take a original copy of my marriage license and divorce decree with the judge's signature to the SS Office-no copies.