Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today Rep. Ron Estes introduced legislation that removes burdensome Social Security measures for those who lose a loved one. This bill allows widows and widowers to claim survivor benefits from the date of their loved one’s passing, rather than being eligible from the date that they apply.

“When facing the devastating loss of a loved one, the first thing on a spouse’s mind shouldn’t be to call the Social Security Administration,” said Rep. Estes. “Widows and widowers should be able to claim survivor benefits from the date their loved one passed away, regardless of when they can file a claim.”

Under current law, widows and widowers are not eligible for survivor benefits until the date they apply with a six-month grace period. This bill emphasizes healing for loved ones instead of dealing with bureaucratic processes.