<prompt> Human: I need some advice. My girlfriends stepfather just died in a car wreck last night. As the title says, her entire family: her mom, sister and her sisters 1 year old baby are financially dependent on him. They live on very little. I have had conversations with my gf where she said she had no idea what her family would do if something happened to her stepdad. Unfortunately that conversation is no longer a what if scenario. Right now they are all grieving his loss; she just went home for the weekend for the funeral. Her and I attend college 4 hours away from her home, so I want to do anything I can to prepare for the reality of what is coming. The bills, car payments, food, diapers. This is a situation where they need serious financial help, but I know so little about what to do. Is there any advice any of you have? Have any of you been in a similar situation or have any words of encouragement I could pass along to them? I believe in the power of prayer, so prayers would help tremendously. Thank you all so much.  <response>: Step 1 - Call automotive insurance - see what payouts you might be receiving. Step 2 - Contact his place of work, see what insurance benefits he might have - lots of places offer basic life insurance. Step 2 - Any other life insurance policies. Step 3 - Call the state, apply for benefits. Step 4 - Go to the social security office, apply for benefits. 