Ask Larry

if my wife passed away at age 33 from covid 19 we have two kids together what benefits do i qualify for or should apply for with social security

Hi. I'm sorry for your loss. If your wife worked and paid into Social Security long enough to be insured for survivor benefits then it sounds like your children would likely qualify for child benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.04/handbook-0410.html). And, assuming one or both of them are in your care and and are either under age 16 or are disabled, then you may qualify for father's benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.04/handbook-0415.html). There is also potentially a one-time death benefit of $255 for which you might qualify.

I would suggest calling Social Security at 800-772-1213 in order to check on your eligibility and/or to make an appointment to apply for benefits.

Best, Jerry