Lump Sum Death Benefit

In 2000, my husband and high school sweetheart passed away. I was 40 years old. I was told I couldn’t receive Widow’s Benefit until I became 60. I received a lump sum of $255 from the Social Security Department. I had no job, an apartment, car payments, and utility bills. I needed help!

In 2008, I remarried. My second husband passed away in 2014. He had no insurance. Funeral cost can start at $6,000. Again, I received $255.

When death comes, you can become devastated with loneliness, grief, depression, financial burdens and the reality of your decreased household income.

The Lump Sum Death Benefit was originally acted in 1935. The benefit was based on 3.5% of an individual’s earning with the average LSDB at that time of $96.93. In 1940, the average LSDB was $145.79. In 1950, the average was $147.81 and in 1954, a cap of $255 was established.

My goal is to change the benefits for widows. A widow has been called a widow if she has been married 1 day, 1 year, 5 years, or 10 years. Presently the definition is defined as 10 years of marriage. Another goal is to allow young widows to receive 2 years Social Security benefits to assist in her transition. For younger widows, the benefit would end after 2 years and be reinstated when she turns 60.

I would like the President, Congress and all concern citizens to be aware of this seriuos situation and help change this policy.

Maybe you are a widow or know a widow. Help me help us by signing this petition.

Thank you