Dear Carrie: My husband died recently, and it's just me now. Who will look out for me if I have issues with Medicare or Social Security? -- A Reader
Dear Reader: My heart goes out to you as you adjust to the loss of your husband. The death of a loved one can make everything else pale in significance. But as your question implies, you still need to deal with the practical and financial issues in life, and those can seem a lot more difficult when facing them alone.
At this time, it's really important to reach out to friends, family and trusted advisers who can help you see things more clearly and prioritize what you need to do to make sure you remain financially secure. Don't be afraid to ask for help --and don't let yourself become isolated. There are lots of community services available if you know where to look for them. For my part, I can provide a few insights and point you toward some resources.
ANSWERING SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE QUESTIONS
Let's start with Social Security and Medicare, since you mention them. As a widow, if you're at full retirement age as defined by the Social Security Administration, you qualify for 100 percent of your husband's benefits. If you're younger, benefits are graduated by age and work status. (Of course, if your own benefit is higher, you should take that.)
The SSA can give you detailed information on what you need to provide to get your husband's benefits (e.g., a death certificate, your marriage certificate and Social Security numbers for both of you) and will work with you to assure you receive the maximum in which you're entitled. You can find specifics on how to apply at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You can also contact your local Social Security office.
Generally, you're eligible for Medicare if you or your husband worked for at least 10 years in Medicare-covered employment, you're 65 or older and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. If you have questions, there are two primary sources of information:
-- For eligibility, enrolling or applying for the Extra Help benefit available under the prescription drug program if your income is low, contact the Social Security Administration at the number and website above.
-- For covered medical services, choosing a Medicare part D drug plan or finding a local doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare patients, contact the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services at 1-800-633-4227 or medicare.gov.
FINDING SOMEONE TO HELP YOU
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