Notifying the Social Security Administration after a death is one of the most time-sensitive tasks on your list. Here's how to do it, what to expect, and how to handle any benefits that were already paid.
Important: You cannot report a death or apply for survivors benefits online. All contact with the SSA must be done by phone or in person at your local Social Security office.
Step 1: The Funeral Home Usually Does This For You
In most cases, the funeral home will notify the Social Security Administration on your behalf when they file the death report. This is standard practice. Confirm with your funeral director that they are handling it, and you can skip this step.
If you are not using a funeral home, or if you want to verify the report was filed, you can contact the SSA directly.
Step 2: Call the SSA Directly if Needed
If the funeral home has not notified Social Security, or if you need to follow up, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). They are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time.
You can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring:
- The deceased's Social Security number
- A certified copy of the death certificate
- Your own ID and Social Security number
- The deceased's most recent W-2 or tax return (for survivors benefit applications)
Step 3: Return Any Overpaid Benefits Immediately
Social Security pays benefits a month behind: the payment received in May covers April. If your loved one died in April, the May payment must be returned. If it was paid by direct deposit, the SSA will recover it automatically by contacting the bank. If it was paid by paper check, do not cash it. Return it to the SSA with a note explaining the situation.
Keeping or spending an overpayment, even by accident, can create legal problems for the estate, so act on this quickly.
Step 4: Check Whether You Qualify for a Survivors Benefit
The SSA offers a one-time $255 lump-sum death payment to eligible surviving spouses or children. It's a small amount, and it isn't paid automatically. You have to apply for it.
Surviving spouses and dependent children may also qualify for ongoing survivors benefits based on the deceased's work history, and these can be substantial. Apply as soon as possible, because benefits are not retroactive beyond six months.
Eligibility depends on your age, your relationship to the deceased, and your own work history. The SSA can walk you through this on the phone.
What About Medicare?
Notifying Social Security also cancels the deceased's Medicare coverage. If your loved one was receiving Medicare Advantage or a Part D drug plan, contact those providers separately to stop any future premium charges.