Question: I’m a widow in my late fifties. When my children were at home I received Social Security benefits, but now they’re all adults and the Social Security benefits have ceased. Presently I’m living off the proceeds of my husband’s life insurance, which is barely enough to get by. When i retire, can I qualify for Social Security, even though I have personally never worked and never paid into the system? Response: According to the Social Security Department, you can qualify under your husband’s Social Security death benefits. But the amount you will draw is less that he would have been able to draw at retirement. I recommend that you contact your local Social Security Administration Department and verify the benefits you will qualify for. Be sure to apply by age 59 because it may take from nine to twelve months to get qualified.