After a loss
Notifying Social Security
Often the funeral home does it. A few things are still up to the family.
Current as of October 2026. Laws and figures can change — see full disclaimer.
The Social Security Administration needs to know about a death to stop payments and check for survivor benefits. In most cases, the funeral home reports the death to Social Security, using the information the family gives them.
Reporting it yourself
If no funeral home is involved, or the family wants to make sure the death was reported, they can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or visit a local office. The SSA doesn't accept death reports online. Having the person's Social Security number ready helps.
Payments after a death
Social Security pays benefits a month behind. A person isn't due a payment for the month they die, so a payment that arrives the following month usually has to be returned. If it was a direct deposit, the bank is usually asked to return it.
Benefits the family may get
- A one-time death payment of $255, paid to a surviving spouse or child who meets certain requirements. It has to be applied for within 2 years.
- Monthly survivor benefits, for a widow or widower, children, or sometimes dependent parents, depending on the person's work record
Survivor benefits aren't automatic in every case. Families usually need to apply by phone or at an office.
Social Security shares death information with some other federal agencies, but not everyone. Medicare is usually updated automatically; banks, pensions and private insurers aren't.
- Lump-sum death payment: $255
- Deadline to apply for it: 2 years
- Social Security phone line: 1-800-772-1213
- Last verified: October 2026 against ssa.gov