Benefit programs for older adults

348 programs, one record each. Every record links to the agency's own page — we never take your application ourselves.

Written and checked by Jason Burns, Editorial Steward

• Monthly incomeNationwide

  Social Security Survivor Benefits

  If your husband or wife has died, you may be owed a monthly benefit based on their record.

  Typically worth $6,000 – $45,000 a year

• Monthly incomeNationwide

  Social Security Benefits From an Ex-Spouse's Record

  If the marriage lasted ten years, you may be able to collect on your ex's record. They are never told, and their check is not reduced.

  Typically worth $4,000 – $24,000 a year

• Monthly incomeNationwide

  Social Security Fairness Act: Benefits You Never Filed For

  If a government pension once wiped out your spousal or survivor benefit, that rule is gone. Social Security will not come find you.

  Typically worth $3,600 – $30,000 a year

• Monthly incomeNationwide

  Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

  A monthly cash payment for people 65 and older with very little income, and the doorway to Medicaid in most states.

  Typically worth $1,200 – $11,800 a year