Social Security - A Guide for Families After a Loss
Applying for Benefits
If provided with the Social Security number, the Social Security Administration will be notified electronically after a loved one has passed. This does not, however, automatically trigger benefits families may be entitled to. The notification of death simply updates Social Security’s records and stops payments to the decedent. The notification does not start or transfer any benefits to surviving family members. Legally, a payment issued after the date of passing must be taken back by Social Security and eligible family members can apply for the final payment to be reissued in the name of a living person or persons. This is done by completing the SSA-1724 form (Claim for Amounts Due In The Case Of Deceased Beneficiary), and providing it to your local Social Security Office.
When Do Survivor Benefits Roll Over Automatically?
In most cases, Social Security survivor benefits do not begin automatically and require an application appointment. However, an exception occurs when a surviving spouse was already receiving benefits based on their deceased spouse’s record prior to their passing. Because their benefits were already linked to their spouse’s record, the transition to survivor benefits may happen without additional action.
If a surviving spouse or family member is not already receiving benefits based on the decedent’s record, they must schedule an appointment with the Social Security Administration to apply for survivor benefits.
What Social Security Benefits Are Available to Surviving Family Members?
One-Time Death Benefit ($255 Lump Sum Payment)
● A one-time payment of $255 is available to a surviving spouse who was living with the deceased at the time of death.
● If no spouse exists, a dependent child or adult disabled child may qualify instead.
● This payment is not automatic and must be applied for within two years of death and is only paid out once.
Monthly Survivor Benefits
Social Security offers monthly payments to certain surviving family members.
● Surviving spouse
● At full retirement age (FRA), a widow or widower can receive 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefits.
● At age 60 (or 50 if disabled), they can receive a reduced benefit.
● If caring for a child under 16 or disabled, they may receive benefits at any age.
● Dependent children
● Unmarried children under 18 (or 19 if still in high school) are eligible for benefits.
● If the child is disabled before age 22, they may receive lifelong benefits. ● Dependent parents (uncommon but possible)
● If a parent over age 62 was financially dependent on the deceased child, they may qualify for benefits.
Still have a question?
You may contact the Social Security Administration for more information by calling 1 800-772-1213, your local office, or visiting their website (www.ssa.gov).
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