First steps
- Report the death to Social Security. Funeral homes often report it, but confirm with SSA at 1-800-772-1213. The death certificate and Social Security number are needed.
- Do not spend payments that arrive after the death without checking (see below).
- Contact Medicare or the plan (1-800-MEDICARE) so coverage and billing are updated.
- Apply for survivor benefits if you are a spouse, child, or other eligible family member.
Payments for the month of death
Social Security pays in arrears, and no benefit is payable for the month a person dies. A payment received after the death for that month, and any later payments, must be returned. For example, if someone dies in July, the payment normally received in August (for July) must be returned. If benefits were paid by direct deposit, the bank generally returns the money to SSA. Ask SSA before spending any payment you are unsure about.
The $255 lump-sum death benefit
A one-time payment of $255 may be paid to the surviving spouse who was living with the worker, or to eligible children. It has not changed since 1954. Apply within 2 years of the death.
Survivor benefits
Depending on your relationship, you may receive up to 100% of the deceased's benefit as a surviving spouse at full retirement age (reduced if you claim between 60 and FRA). Children, dependent parents, and divorced spouses (after a 10-year marriage) may qualify too. You generally cannot apply for survivor benefits online: call or visit SSA. See survivor benefits, children's benefits, and divorced spouse benefits.
What to have ready
- The death certificate (the funeral home can provide copies).
- Social Security numbers for you and the deceased.
- Marriage certificate, and divorce papers if relevant.
- Children's birth certificates and Social Security numbers, if applying for children.
- Your most recent tax return or W-2.