State Unemployment Benefits in Missouri: when someone dies
A 3-step process for Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations — Division of Employment Security after a death in Missouri.
OverviewWhen someone dies
Administering agency
Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations — Division of Employment Security
Phone800-320-2519
WebsiteVisit website →
Authority
8 CSR 10-3.060 (Benefits Due Deceased Claimants; implements Mo. Rev. Stat. 288.060)
Verified Jul 2026
Steps to take
- Report the claimant's death to the Division of Employment Security so benefit payments stop.
- Determine who is entitled to any benefits due the claimant under 8 CSR 10-3.060: the estate representative issued letters testamentary or of administration (applied for within 30 days of death), or otherwise the surviving spouse (or, for surviving minor children, a guardian or person who supported them).
- Present a written claim for the benefits due, with the proof the Division requires, within 60 days of death (the director may extend the time for good cause).
Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations — Division of Employment Security
Phone: 800-320-2519
Visit the agency website →Frequently asked questions
The death should be reported to the Division of Employment Security so payments stop. Under 8 CSR 10-3.060, benefits due the claimant for weeks of eligibility before death are paid to the estate representative or, if no letters are applied for within 30 days of death, to the surviving spouse (or others the rule names for surviving minor children). A written claim must be presented within 60 days of death, or the benefits remain in the unemployment compensation fund. Contact a Regional Claims Center at 800-320-2519.
Sources
Data sourced from State Unemployment Benefits in Missouri primary sources (4 pages reviewed). How we research.
Administering agency
Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations — Division of Employment Security
Phone800-320-2519
WebsiteVisit website →
Authority
8 CSR 10-3.060 (Benefits Due Deceased Claimants; implements Mo. Rev. Stat. 288.060)
Verified Jul 2026