Survivor Benefits Eligibility Missouri

Summary

Carrie Shaffer is caring for Elaina Mefford in Missouri. Elainas husband, Richard Mefford, passed away in 2016 after being approved for disability due to AIDS. Elaina, diagnosed with schizophrenia and diabetes, did not apply for survivor benefits after Richards death. She is advised to apply for survivor benefits as soon as possible, as she may be eligible for benefits dating back to Richards death, and could receive monthly survivor benefits based on Richards Social Security earnings record.

Full Conversation

I am caregiving for Elaina Mefford in Missouri. When I mat her, she had had a breakdown several years prior and was diagnosed with schizophrenia dilusional and she had developed diabetes. She had been alone and was out of her mind. We got her some help, she is on meds, and is now receiving ssdi. After having cared for her for a year now, what ive gathered, is that her husband, Richard Mefford, passed away in *. He was sick for a while, files disability, found he had aids, got approved for disability, and died. She received an ssa letter of approval for Richard the day after he passed. She had a breakdown and didn't even know what she was suppose to do. Richard was a worker. He had paid taxes. And was supporting Elaina. Elaina almost lost her home and now it is falling apart and is developing hazards that is threatening her health. I have tried to call ssa but they don't even look in the system to see what is what. Is Elaina entitled to any backpay or somesort of benefit from Richard being he was her husband and lived in the same home and is still his wife. He died in *
Did Elaina apply for survivor benefits after Richard's death? In Missouri, a surviving spouse may be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits.
No
Elaina should apply for survivor benefits as soon as possible. The Social Security Administration may provide benefits dating back to the time of Richard's death.
Even *
Yes, even *. However, it's important to note that the Social Security Administration typically only pays retroactive benefits for up to 6 months before the application date.
Ok. Will she receive monthly benefits
Yes, if approved, Elaina could receive monthly survivor benefits. The amount depends on Richard's Social Security earnings record.
Thank u
You're welcome, ****. If you need further assistance or have more questions, feel free to ask.