Understanding Medicare & Social Security Death Benefits for Families

Family members may be eligible for a one-time Social Security death benefit. The deceased must have met certain work requirements like paying into the Social Security program and working for a set amount of time for a family member to receive a benefit.

Eligibility

• The payment is made to the surviving spouse or eligible children. Under certain circumstances, if you are divorced from the deceased you may be eligible for the death benefit.

Applying

• When you apply, you will need to provide your name and Social Security number, living arrangements for you and the deceased and information about the deceased&'s income. You also must provide the deceased&'s name, gender, date of birth, SSN and information on any unmarried children and current and previous spouses.

Proof

• You will be required to show documents proving you are eligible for benefits. You will need an original birth certificate or proof of birth, naturalization papers, military discharge papers and a photocopy of your most recent tax returns.

Payment

• If all the requirements are met, you will be eligible for a one-time payment of $255 to help with funeral expenses.

Collect

• Providing a banking account number will allow you to receive the payment by direct deposit. A check can be sent by mail if necessary.