The Social Security Administration manages retirement, disability, and survivor benefits for workers and their families. When a Social Security recipient dies, SSA must be notified, benefits must be stopped, and surviving family members may be eligible for survivor benefits.

Death notification

In most cases, the funeral home reports the death to SSA using the deceased person's Social Security number. If the funeral home does not report the death, a family member or other responsible party should contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to report the death. SSA does not accept death reports online. Any Social Security benefits paid for the month of death or later must be returned. No payment is due for the month of death, even if the person dies on the last day of the month.

Deadline: As soon as possible after death

Survivor benefits

The SSA offers 5 benefits for surviving family members.

Lump Sum Death Payment

A one-time payment of $255 paid to a surviving spouse who was living with the deceased. If the spouse was not living in the same home, they may still qualify if they are eligible for benefits on the deceased worker's record. If there is no surviving spouse, a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased worker's record may receive it. Application must be filed within two years of the worker's death (Form SSA-8).

Amount: $255 (one-time)

Widow/Widower Benefits

Monthly benefits available to a surviving spouse who was married at least 9 months before the death, starting at age 60 (age 50 if disabled), or at any age if caring for the deceased's child under age 16 or a disabled child who is receiving Social Security benefits. A spouse who remarries before age 60 (50 if disabled) is not eligible. Benefits are based on the deceased worker's earnings record. Apply using Form SSA-10.

Amount: 71.5% to 100% of deceased worker's benefit amount depending on age at claim (100% at full retirement age)

Surviving Divorced Spouse Benefits

Monthly benefits for a surviving divorced spouse if the marriage lasted at least 10 years. Same age requirements as widow/widower benefits. A surviving divorced spouse caring for the deceased's child under age 16 does not need to meet the 10-year marriage requirement.

Amount: 71.5% to 100% of deceased worker's benefit amount depending on age at claim

Children's Survivor Benefits

Monthly benefits for unmarried children of the deceased worker who are age 17 or younger (or up to age 19 if a full-time student in elementary or secondary school), or any age if disabled at age 21 or younger. Under certain circumstances, stepchildren, adopted children, grandchildren, and stepgrandchildren may also qualify. Subject to a family maximum benefit cap (150% to 180% of the worker's benefit).

Amount: Up to 75% of deceased worker's benefit amount (subject to family maximum of 150%-180%)

Parent's Survivor Benefits

Monthly benefits for a dependent parent age 62 or older of a deceased worker who was providing at least half of the parent's financial support. Apply using Form SSA-7.

Amount: 82.5% of deceased worker's benefit for one parent; 75% each for two parents

Forms

SSA-8Application for Lump-Sum Death Payment

A surviving spouse or eligible child files this to claim the one-time $255 lump-sum death payment; it must be filed within two years of the worker's death.

View form →

SSA-10Information You Need to Apply for Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Divorced Spouse's Benefits

A surviving spouse or surviving divorced spouse uses this to apply for monthly survivor benefits on the deceased worker's earnings record.

View form →

SSA-7Information You Need to Apply for Parent's Benefits

A dependent parent age 62 or older who received at least half their support from the deceased worker uses this to apply for parent's survivor benefits.

View form →

When someone dies