Social Security Benefits
What survivors may be entitled to, and how to claim it.
We Report the Death
As part of our service, we notify the Social Security Administration of the death. You do not need to make that first report yourself, but you do need to apply for any benefits.
Lump-Sum Death Payment
A one-time payment of $255 may be made to a surviving spouse who was living with the deceased, or to a child eligible for benefits on the deceased's record. The application must generally be made within two years of the death.
Survivor Benefits
- A widow or widower age 60 or older (50 or older if disabled)
- A surviving spouse of any age caring for a child under 16
- Unmarried children under 18, or under 19 if still in high school
- Children disabled before age 22
- Dependent parents age 62 or older in some cases
- Some divorced spouses of a marriage lasting 10 years or more
Documents You Will Need
- Certified death certificate (we order these for you)
- Social Security numbers for the deceased and the claimant
- Birth certificate and marriage certificate
- Divorce decree if claiming as a divorced spouse
- Most recent W-2 or self-employment tax return
- Bank account information for direct deposit
How to Apply
Survivor claims are filed by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or at your local Social Security office. Apply promptly, because some benefits are not paid retroactively.
Veterans families should also review veterans burial benefits.