The passing of a loved one is perhaps the most painful event in life. No one should have to grieve alone. At this time of a loss it is important to surround yourself with your personal support group who can help console and counsel you at this time. Your personal support group includes family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and your religious community. In some cases you may also wish to seek the guidance of a professional counselor. In coming to terms with your loss, you will take some time to recollect your loved one. You can appreciate the blessings which their presence brought to your life, even if the time they could stay with you seems to have ended too soon.
With the support of your family and friends you will be able to gather the strength to complete the necessary details which must be faced by the survivors. It is advisable that the tasks be divided up if possible between loved ones. In this manner, the necessary steps can be completed, and no one person bears the entire burden. It is natural and normal that the pain and grief of the survivors will take some time to heal. Make full use of your personal support network.
If your spouse dies after you have retired and you are receiving a qualified joint & survivor annuity on or after 1/1/1999, the pop-up benefit described here applies.