My husband passed away and I am trying to get my widows benefits started. I can't get into a locations in Fort Myers until March. I was planning to go to my sisters in Panama City to see if they could see me any sooner. I really need to get this taken care of so that I will have income.

Hi. I'm sorry for your loss. Due to COVID, Social Security offices have been closed to the public since March 2020. Since in 2021, Social Security did start making a limited number of in-office appointments for people with complex or dire-need problems, but I don't know what the current status is.

You don't need to apply for widow's benefits in person, though. You can apply by phone, and you should be able to make an appointment to do so by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213. However, since you don't mention any details such as your age, etc., I'm unable to give you any advice regarding your benefit options.

Best, Jerry