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Notify Social Security Administration
Legal Government & Financial Notifications
Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to report the death. Benefits paid after the date of death must be returned. Surviving spouses and dependent children may be eligible for survivor benefits. The funeral home may report the death automatically if you provided the Social Security number. Ask about the $255 lump-sum death benefit and survivor benefits eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Process
How do I notify Social Security of a death?
The funeral home typically reports the death to Social Security using the deceased's SSN. However, you should verify this was done by calling SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday-Friday 8am-7pm local time. You cannot report a death online. If the funeral home did not report it, you will need to provide the deceased's SSN, date of birth, and date of death.
What happens to Social Security payments after death?
Social Security benefits stop the month of death. If the person died in July, the July payment (usually received in August) must be returned. SSA will send a letter requesting repayment. If benefits were direct-deposited, SSA will contact the bank to reclaim the funds. Do not spend any payments received after the date of death—they are not yours to keep.
Costs
What is the Social Security lump-sum death benefit?
SSA pays a one-time lump-sum death benefit of $255 to the surviving spouse who was living with the deceased, or to a child eligible for benefits. You must apply within 2 years of the death. File by calling SSA or visiting your local office. Despite the small amount, it is worth claiming as the application is straightforward.
Legal
Who qualifies for Social Security survivor benefits?
Eligible survivors include a surviving spouse age 60+ (50+ if disabled), a surviving spouse of any age caring for the deceased's child under 16, unmarried children under 18 (or 19 if still in high school), and dependent parents age 62+. Benefits are based on the deceased's earnings record. A surviving spouse can receive up to 100% of the deceased's benefit amount at full retirement age.
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