Social Security will pay Benefits to the Surviving Spouses of Same-Sex Married Couples

This is wonderful news!

Carolyn W. Colvin, Acting Commissioner of Social Security, released a statement on payments to the surviving spouses of same-sex married couples.

"I am pleased to announce that, effective today, Social Security is processing some widow’s and widower’s claims by surviving members of same-sex marriages and paying benefits where they are due. In addition, we are able to pay some one-time lump sum death benefit claims to surviving same-sex spouses. As I stated shortly after the Supreme Court decision on Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act, our goal is to treat all Americans with dignity and respect.

We ask for continued patience from the public as we work closely with the Department of Justice to develop policies that are legally sound so we can process claims.

If you believe you may be eligible for Social Security, I encourage you to apply now to protect against the loss of any potential benefits. We will process claims as soon as additional instructions become finalized."

It may not mean much for some of you now, but trust me, it will when you are growing old with the love of your life.

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