Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, often compounded by unexpected financial strains. While Social Security is primarily known for retirement benefits, it also provides crucial support to families when a worker dies. These “survivor benefits” can offer a vital financial lifeline during a time of grief and adjustment.
When a person who has worked and paid Social Security taxes passes away, certain family members may be eligible for monthly benefits based on the deceased’s earnings record. The more credits the deceased earned through their work, the higher the potential benefits for their survivors.
Who can qualify? The Social Security Administration (SSA) extends benefits to a range of eligible individuals, including:
- Surviving Spouses: A widow or widower can generally begin receiving benefits as early as age 60 (or age 50 if they are disabled). If they are caring for the deceased’s child who is under age 16 or has a disability, they may be eligible at any age. Surviving divorced spouses may also qualify under specific circumstances, such as being married for at least 10 years.
- Children: Unmarried children of the deceased may receive benefits if they are under age 18 (or up to age 19 if attending elementary or secondary school full-time). Children with a disability that began before age 22 can be eligible at any age. This can include biological, adopted, and sometimes stepchildren or grandchildren.
- Dependent Parents: If the deceased provides at least half of a parent’s financial support, and the parent is age 62 or older, they might be eligible for survivor benefits.
In addition to monthly payments, a one-time lump-sum death payment of $255 may be available to a surviving spouse living with the deceased, or to eligible children if there is no such spouse. While a modest amount, this can assist with immediate expenses.
To apply for survivor benefits, it’s crucial to contact the Social Security Administration as soon as possible after a death. Often, the funeral home will report the death to the SSA, but families should still follow up directly. Applications for most survivor benefits cannot be completed online; you’ll typically need to call the SSA at 1–800-772‑1213 (TTY 1–800-325‑0778) to schedule an appointment by phone or in person. Be prepared to provide the deceased’s Social Security number, proof of death by death certificate, and documents verifying your relationship to the deceased.