Social Security Benefits

What are Social Security Death Benefits?

Social Security death benefits include a one-time lump-sum payment of up to $255 and potential monthly survivor benefits for eligible family members, such as a widow, widower, or dependent child. The deceased must have a history of Social Security-covered earnings to qualify. To apply for benefits, you must contact the Social Security Administration (SSA), often starting with the funeral director who can report the death.

Who qualifies for benefits?

A widow or widower age 60 or older
A surviving divorced spouse, under certain circumstances
A widow or widower at any age who is caring for the deceased’s child who is under age 16 or disabled and receiving child’s benefits
An unmarried child of the deceased who is one of the following:
Younger than age 18 (up to age 19 if he or she is a full-time student in an elementary or secondary school).
Age 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22.

What steps should survivors take?

In most cases, the funeral home will report the person’s death when the death certificate is processed, however, if not, a surviving family member should notify the Social Security Administration as soon as possible following the date of death. Deaths cannot be reported online, and benefits can not be applied for online.

How do I contact the Social Security Administration?

If you need assistance or have questions about qualifying to receive survivor’s benefits, call 1-800-772-1213.

Additional information is available online at ssa.gov/benefits/survivors.