My Mother died just over a year ago. My Father has survived her. My sister(the only girl in family) has been helping my father w/things like social security and finances... i.e. medical bills and such. Recently, my father had told me the he receives no survivors benefits from social security. Is that possible in the state of n.j.. My mother had worked most her life. I am wrong thinking he should get a benefit for losing spouse? Seems messed up that he also has to pay for medical insurance even after medicare.

I am sure you could call the social security office and ask. Benefits have to be applied for has your sister applied ?

Social Security is a federal program, so the state you live in doesn't matter.

Please read this page from the Social Security site --

Social Security Online - Widows, Widowers & Other Survivors - Report a Death (http://www.ssa.gov/ww&os1.htm)

Last week I called for our library homeless guy (who was with me -- he has no phone or access to one), and we waited about ten minutes. I've called late in the week in the afternoon and waited even less time. Other than that waiting time, service is prompt and efficient.