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What Happens to Social Security After a Death?

After someone dies, the Social Security Administration needs to be notified so benefits can be updated or stopped. In many cases, the funeral home reports the death, but families should not assume it has already been handled. Survivors may also need to ask about a possible one-time death benefit or ongoing survivor benefits.

Does Social Security need to be notified?

  • —Yes — the Social Security Administration should be notified as soon as possible after a death
  • —In many cases, the funeral home reports the death directly to Social Security if they are given the correct information
  • —Do not assume it has been handled — confirm with the funeral home that they have submitted the report
  • —If the funeral home did not report it, the family will need to contact Social Security directly

Does the family need to call Social Security?

  • —If the funeral home handled the report, a separate call may not be needed — but it's worth confirming
  • —To contact Social Security directly, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
  • —You can also visit your local Social Security office in person
  • —Have the deceased's Social Security number and date of death ready when you call

What happens to monthly benefits?

  • —Monthly Social Security benefits paid to the deceased must stop — they are not owed for the month of death
  • —Any payment received for the month in which the person died must be returned to Social Security
  • —Do not spend a direct deposit payment received after the death — it will need to be returned
  • —If the payment was by check, do not cash it — return it to Social Security

Is there a death benefit?

  • —There may be a one-time lump-sum death benefit of $255 available in some situations
  • —This benefit is available only to a surviving spouse who was living with the deceased, or to an eligible child
  • —It must be applied for — it is not paid automatically
  • —Contact Social Security to find out if you qualify and how to apply

Are survivor benefits available?

  • —Some family members may qualify for ongoing monthly survivor benefits based on the deceased's work record
  • —Surviving spouses, children, and in some cases dependent parents may be eligible
  • —The amount depends on the deceased's earnings history and the survivor's age and relationship
  • —Ask Social Security directly about survivor benefits — they can tell you what you may qualify for

What information should I have ready?

  • —Full legal name of the deceased
  • —Social Security number of the deceased
  • —Date of birth
  • —Date of death
  • —Funeral home name and contact information, if applicable
  • —Your own relationship to the deceased if asking about survivor benefits
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Social Security rules can vary by situation — contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 for guidance specific to your circumstances.

Related Guides

Documents After a Death

What documents and paperwork you may need — and what can wait

Bank Accounts After a Death

What happens to bank accounts — and what to do first

Life Insurance After a Death

How to find a policy and what you'll need to file a claim

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