# New bill would let families apply for Social Security benefits online

> A bipartisan proposal would modernize how Americans file for survivor benefits after losing a loved one.
- Title: New bill would let families apply for Social Security…
- Summary: A bipartisan proposal would modernize how Americans file for survivor benefits after losing a loved one. The Survivor Benefits Application Modernization Act…
- Keywords: social security, survivor benefits, congress, bipartisan, sharice davids, gabe evans, digital application, social security administration, legislation, bill, let, families
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/social-security-update-hundreds-of-thousands-to-benefit-under-new-proposal-12452341
- Published: 2026-09-16T21:05:06+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: social security, survivor benefits, congress, bipartisan, sharice davids, gabe evans, digital application, social security administration, legislation
## Bipartisan bill modernizes survivor benefits
Representatives Sharice Davids (D-Kansas) and Gabe Evans (R-Colorado) introduced the Survivor Benefits Application Modernization Act to let families apply for Social Security survivor benefits online instead of in person.
## What the bill would require
The SSA would create an online scheduling portal within 180 days and a full digital application system within one year, eliminating paper forms and phone scheduling.
## Hundreds of thousands could benefit
About 5.8 million Americans currently receive survivor benefits. The average monthly payment is roughly $1,626, but families still face major expenses after losing a breadwinner.

> A household may lose one person, but it doesn't suddenly lose half its expenses.
## Why timing matters for grieving families
Families often need survivor benefits immediately after a death, but current processes require in-person visits and paperwork that create delays during an already difficult time.

> When a family loses a parent, spouse, or breadwinner, the last thing they should have to deal with is a maze of administrative red tape.
## Tech could help younger beneficiaries most
Financial experts say online filing would speed up access to benefits, though some older retirees may resist digital systems and prefer in-person support.

> This will indeed help people who are well-versed in technology.
## Congress will review results after three years
The law requires the SSA to report on processing times, cost savings, and any fraud or identity theft cases within three years of implementation.
## Bill faces committee process before vote
The proposal has been introduced in the House and must advance through committee before receiving votes in both chambers.
## Part of broader Social Security debate
This proposal arrives as lawmakers debate Social Security's long-term finances. Trustees project the trust fund will be depleted within a decade without congressional action.
## Key takeaway

The Survivor Benefits Application Modernization Act would let families apply for Social Security survivor benefits entirely online instead of requiring in-person visits and paperwork.