<prompt> Human: So our recently hired nanny opened up to us about losing her husband last month. he was battling cancer so it wasnt completely unexpected but shes expressed a lack of understanding of what she should get in terms of benefits he was receiving social security disability and apparently the amount she now gets is much less. She has also stated she doesnt want her children to know her financial state so I was hoping to get some advice here to pass along to her. I mentioned that his debt is not her debt so things such as credit cards and potentially medical bills shouldnt be an issue not 100 on medicalWe pay her 15 an hour cash.She has a condo not sure status.I believe a car loan.No credit card debt in her name I believe.What should she do, what should be expecting in terms of her husbands social security and disability.  <response>: One of the first things she should do is apply for social security survivors benefits for herself and her children.It does not seem to be very well known, but social security is a life insurance plan as well as a retirement plan. It pays out monthly, however, rather than in a lump sum, like most life insurance.I think you should apply for social security survivors benefits within 6 months of a death. If eligible, both she, and all the children who are under 18 should get a monthly income from this until the last child turns 18.Google around, and find out how to apply.Good luck. 