As depressing as this is, there may be a slight up side to the experience, in that if you are already collecting Social Security benefits, you may be able to collect more. Here's why.

As a surviving spouse, you can continue to receive your own Social Security benefits. Or, you can receive 100% of your deceased spouse's benefits, whichever is the greater amount.

In other words, if you earned less over your lifetime than your spouse, you are entitled to receive that person's benefits.

The full 100% benefit from your deceased spouse's account starts at your full retirement age. That age, as defined by the Social Security Administration, ranges from 65 for those born in 1937 or earlier, to age 67 for those born in 1960 or later.

A reduced amount for widows and widowers can be claimed starting at age 60. If you are disabled, then you need be only 50 years old.

In order to determine the exact dollar amount of your benefits, you can either make an appointment and visit your local office or, in some cases, begin the process by phone. In either case, you will need to show your marriage certificate and your spouse's death certificate. If you were previously married, then your divorce certificate.

For Further Information: Call the SSA at: 800-772-1213 or visit: www.ssa.gov .

Note: There are many convoluted regulations regarding benefits following the death of a spouse, such as if it is a second marriage, how long you were married to your first spouse, and if there are dependent children. When you log onto the website, in the search box, type "widow's benefits" and most of your questions will be answered.

- Nancy Dunnan