<Of course my accumulated Social Security benefits, except for whatever pittance she might get as a widow, evaporate, a big factor in the privatization issue.

A non-working widow will draw the same benefits that the man was entitled. My wife's sister drew the benefits of her ex-husband after he died even though they had been divorced for many years. If there are minor children they also draw benefits.

S.S. is nothing compared to personal retirement planning but it is better than a sharp stick in the eye and it does not evaporate. The max benefits for a widow or retiree and two dependent children is about $2250 per month. No health insurance for the wife but there is a blue cross program free for kids in my state.