A funeral home will usually report a death to Social Security, but families should confirm what has been reported and ask whether a spouse, former spouse, child, dependent parent, or another eligible person may qualify for survivor benefits.
Applications are not fully online
Social Security directs people to call or contact a local office to report a death or apply for survivor benefits. Eligibility and payment amounts depend on the deceased person’s work record and the survivor’s relationship, age, disability status, caregiving responsibilities, and other benefits.
Information to gather before calling
Have identifying information for the person who died and potential survivors, the date and place of death, marriage or divorce information when relevant, bank details for direct deposit, and any documents Social Security requests. Do not send original documents until the agency explains the accepted method.
Ask about timing and benefit choices
Some survivors may be eligible for more than one type of Social Security benefit. Payments are not always added together, and the timing of a claim can affect the result. Ask the representative to explain the options and what changes must be reported later.
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