Aftermath / Credits And Benefits / File for Social Security Benefits
File for Social Security Benefits
If the deceased had been paying into Social Security, then the surviving family may be entitled to benefits after the death.
The death cannot be reported through the Social Security website, it can only be done by phone:
Dial (800) 772-1213 during office hours to begin (Mon - Fri, 8:00am - 5:30pm EST).
If a Funeral Home is helping with accomodations, then may report the death as part of their service offering. To do this, they will need the deceased's Social Security Number.
In addition to survivor benefits, the surviving family may also be eligible to a one time lump-sum death payment of $255 if they meet certain requirements. Review eligibility criteria at the links below.
Regardless of benefit type available, an application will need to be submitted, along with additional documents.
They include but are not limited to:
Review the links below for more information.
The death cannot be reported through the Social Security website, it can only be done by phone:
Dial (800) 772-1213 during office hours to begin (Mon - Fri, 8:00am - 5:30pm EST).
If a Funeral Home is helping with accomodations, then may report the death as part of their service offering. To do this, they will need the deceased's Social Security Number.
In addition to survivor benefits, the surviving family may also be eligible to a one time lump-sum death payment of $255 if they meet certain requirements. Review eligibility criteria at the links below.
Regardless of benefit type available, an application will need to be submitted, along with additional documents.
They include but are not limited to:
- Death Certificate
- Birth certificate or other proof of birth
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status
- W-2 forms and / or self-employment tax returns
- Marriage certificate
Review the links below for more information.