Notifying Social Security after a death is crucial. Here's everything you need to know.
Who Reports the Death?
Usually, the funeral home reports the death to Social Security using the deceased's Social Security number. However, you should verify this was done.
How to Report
Option 1: Funeral Home (Automatic)
Most funeral homes report deaths as part of their service. Confirm they've done this.
Option 2: Call Social Security
- Phone: 1-800-772-1213
- TTY: 1-800-325-0778
- Hours: 8am-7pm local time, Monday-Friday
Option 3: Visit Local Office
Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator
What Information You'll Need
- Deceased's Social Security number
- Date of death
- Place of death
- Your relationship to the deceased
- Your contact information
What Happens to Benefits
Benefits in the Month of Death
Social Security benefits are not payable for the month of death. If the person died in January, the January payment (usually received in February) must be returned.
Direct Deposit
If benefits were direct deposited, contact the bank to return any payments received after death. The bank will return them to SSA.
Checks
Return any uncashed checks to Social Security.
Avoiding Overpayments
This is important: Do not cash any checks received after the month of death. The government will ask for this money back, and it can become a legal issue.
Survivor Benefits
Survivors may be eligible for:
Lump-Sum Death Payment
A one-time payment of $255, payable to:
- Surviving spouse who lived with deceased
- Surviving spouse eligible for benefits
- Eligible child
Monthly Survivor Benefits
May be available to:
- Widow/widower (age 60+, or 50+ if disabled)
- Widow/widower at any age caring for child under 16
- Unmarried children under 18 (or 19 if in school)
- Dependent parents age 62+
Survivor Benefit Amounts
Typically 71-100% of the deceased's benefit amount, depending on survivor's age and relationship.
How to Apply for Survivor Benefits
- Call Social Security: 1-800-772-1213
- Gather documents:
- Death certificate
- Social Security numbers (yours and deceased's)
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Deceased's W-2 or tax return
- Schedule an appointment
Timeline
- Report death: Immediately (within days)
- Return overpayments: Within 30 days
- Apply for survivor benefits: As soon as possible (benefits may be retroactive only 6 months)
Common Questions
What if they received benefits they weren't entitled to?
You may need to repay. Contact SSA to discuss.
Can I use their Social Security number?
No. Never use a deceased person's SSN for any purpose.
What about Medicare?
Medicare is automatically notified when SSA is notified.
Settled Makes This Easier
Our Social Security notification letter template has everything you need. We also track your deadline to ensure this critical task doesn't slip. Start free for 30 days.