If the social security goes to the sons and their income is low, it may not be taxable and won’t show up on tax forms. So the Adjusted Gross Incomes won’t show those amounts. If they are dependents than I am not sure if the social security is on your taxes- you would have to ask an accountant.
The life insurance, 401k and pension are all complicated questions that an accountant could answer, and the accountant could help you with decisions on whether to withdraw or not.
If your income is low, then social security would also not be taxable on your taxes and AGI.
Regardless, you can let college financial aid offices know of this “special circumstance.” For schools that use the CSI Profile there is a section for that. You can also call, email or meet in person with financial aid folks (but don’t talk to a student who might answer the phone!).
So sorry that your husband is gone. It is a major adjustment and your sons are young to go through this as well. I lost my father at 15 and understand. Hope they can go to the schools they want and that need is fully met financially as well as in all other ways.