The Social Security Administration offers a one-time death benefit of $255 to surviving spouses or those who were living on the benefits of a Social Security recipient.
If there is no surviving spouse, this lump sum is paid to a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased’s record in the month of death.
The spouse or children may also be eligible for monthly survivor benefits. Additionally, the agency can put the deceased person on a list to prevent fraud.
You can either ask the funeral home you are using to call the SSA, or call them yourself at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Representative hours are 8am – 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. You can also visit your local Social Security office.
For more on other benefits you may be able to receive, visit the SSA’s website by clicking here. And if you have recently experienced the passing of a loved one, check out the five most important things you need to do (including notifying the SSA) by clicking here, or use our comprehensive checklist by clicking here.
Need more help? Peacefully offers a concierge service where you can speak directly to an end-of-life expert about specific circumstances and how best to proceed. Visit our FAQ page to find out more about this service, schedule your free consultation here, call us at 657-999-0791, or email [email protected] to learn more.
