Social Security Benefits
If the person who died worked long enough under Social Security, their spouse, children, or parents may qualify for survivors' benefits.
What the Benefits Are
Monthly survivors' benefits are based on the earnings of the person who died.
A one-time lump-sum payment of $255 can also be paid to a surviving spouse who lived with them, or to an eligible child when there is no surviving spouse.
Who Qualifies
A widow or widower age 60 or older, a surviving divorced spouse in some cases, or a widow or widower of any age who is caring for the deceased's child under 16 or disabled.
An unmarried child under 18 (up to 19 if still in elementary or secondary school), or 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22.
How to Contact Social Security
In most cases the funeral home reports the death. If not, a family member should notify the Social Security Administration as soon as possible. Deaths cannot be reported online.
Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov/benefits/survivors.