Yes, the surviving spouse may be able to access the deceased spouse's savings to cover mortgage expenses, depending on various factors such as the type of savings accounts, ownership structure, and any legal or administrative requirements. Here are some potential ways the surviving spouse can access the deceased spouse's savings:

1. **Joint Ownership**: If the savings accounts were held jointly with rights of survivorship, the surviving spouse typically becomes the sole owner of the accounts upon the deceased spouse's death. As the sole owner, the surviving spouse has the authority to access and manage the savings as needed to cover mortgage expenses.

2. **Beneficiary Designations**: If the deceased spouse designated the surviving spouse as the beneficiary of savings accounts, such as bank accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), or investment accounts, the surviving spouse may be able to access these assets directly without going through probate or other legal processes. They can then use the funds to cover mortgage expenses.

3. **Probate Process**: If the savings accounts are held solely in the deceased spouse's name and are subject to probate, the surviving spouse may need to go through the probate process to gain access to the assets. Once the assets are transferred to the surviving spouse's name or ownership, they can use them to cover mortgage expenses.

4. **Trusts**: If the deceased spouse established a trust as part of their estate plan and designated the surviving spouse as a beneficiary or successor trustee, the surviving spouse may be able to access trust assets to cover mortgage expenses according to the terms of the trust.

5. **Financial Power of Attorney**: If the deceased spouse granted the surviving spouse financial power of attorney, the surviving spouse may have the authority to manage the deceased spouse's savings and use them to cover mortgage expenses, subject to any limitations specified in the power of attorney document.

It's important for the surviving spouse to review the deceased spouse's savings accounts, consult with financial professionals or legal advisors as needed, and follow any applicable legal or administrative procedures to access and manage the savings effectively.

The surviving spouse's ability to access the deceased spouse's savings to cover mortgage expenses depends on the specific circumstances and the legal framework governing the accounts. Here are some possible scenarios:

1. Joint accounts: If the savings account was held jointly by both spouses, the surviving spouse typically has immediate access to the funds and can use them to cover mortgage expenses.

2. Beneficiary designations: If the deceased spouse named the surviving spouse as the beneficiary on the savings account, the surviving spouse can claim the funds and use them to cover mortgage expenses.

3. Will or trust: If the deceased spouse left a will or trust that names the surviving spouse as the beneficiary or executor, the surviving spouse may need to go through the probate process to access the savings.

4. Community property: In community property states (Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin), the surviving spouse may have a legal claim to half of the savings acquired during the marriage.

5. Probate or estate administration: If the deceased spouse's savings are part of their estate, the surviving spouse may need to wait until the probate process is complete before accessing the funds.

It's crucial for the surviving spouse to consult with a legal or financial advisor to understand their specific situation and the necessary steps to access the savings and cover mortgage expenses.