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Elder Law Prof Blog
Katherine C. Pearson, Editor, and a Member of the Law Professor Blogs Network on LexBlog.com

More on Same Sex Spouses’ Benefits

By rmorgan

As far as eligibility for Social Security spousal benefits, what happens to couples who live in states that do not recognize same-sex marriages or have state versions of DOMA?  According to a September 9, 2013 update from SSA, Benefit eligibility for couples in states that prohibit or do not recognize same-sex marriages or other legal same-sex relationships, individuals are urged to apply ASAP while SSA works out policy and processing issues with DOJ.  Since the filing date is used as the start date for benefits when approved, SSA recommends applying even if the applicant isn’t certain of eligibility for benefits.

Becky Morgan