It is now almost 2 months since Bill's passing and nothing has been settled as far as his Social Security or military payments, including a monthly survivor benefit annuity payment that I am supposed to be receiving. Initially, Social Security was quick and easy to deal with, but someone somewhere in their regional office seems to delight in making life miserable for the newly bereaved. First, they sent a letter stating the benefits that they will pay. That was great. Then they sent a letter saying that they were canceling all payments because I had moved and not notified them. I have lived at the same address for over 30 years! Now, they say that they will reinstate payments, but they will not pay for the month in which Bill died. So, I have filed a second appeal.

In the meantime, the military does nothing. They finally sent several forms a month after Bill's death and our last name was spelled wrong, so I had to send them back. It is now over 3 weeks later and I have heard nothing.

I finally contacted my senator and his office is investigating. Perhaps someone will listen to them. We thought we had everything planned and were well prepared, but it seems that every public agency out there is a mess. It concerns me that those who experience a sudden death and are reeling under the shock are also being treated in such a cavilier manner.