Most people view Social Security simply as a retirement check. But as an actuary, I look at it as a comprehensive insurance package. If you only focus on the "retirement" aspect, you might be leaving significant protections—and dollars—on the table for your family. Many people have heard that Social Security only provides a one-time $255 death benefit. While that small payment exists, focusing on it causes many to miss the far more substantial protections known as "Survivor B