How to Notify Social Security After a Death

Most families do not realize that notifying Social Security after a death is one of the first things that needs to happen. Not in a few weeks. Not when things settle down. Within days.

If it does not happen quickly the estate may end up owing money back to the government and that is a headache nobody needs on top of everything else.

Who Notifies Social Security

In most cases the funeral home handles the initial notification to Social Security as part of their service. It is worth asking them directly whether they will do this so you know it is covered.

If the funeral home does not handle it you can call Social Security directly at 1-800-772-1213. They are available Monday through Friday and the call itself is straightforward. You will need the deceased person's Social Security number and date of death.

You cannot report a death online. It must be done by phone or in person at a local Social Security office.

What Happens to Social Security Payments

If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits those payments stop at death. Any payment received for the month of death or after must be returned. This is important because if a direct deposit comes in after the date of death and you spend it you will owe it back.

Do not spend any Social Security payments that arrive after the date of death. Contact the bank and Social Security to have them returned.

What Benefits May Be Available to Surviving Family

This is the part many families miss entirely. Depending on the situation surviving family members may be entitled to benefits including a one time death payment of $255 for a surviving spouse or dependent child, survivor benefits for a spouse especially if they are over a certain age, and benefits for dependent children under 18.

These benefits do not come automatically. You have to apply for them. It is worth a phone call to find out what your family may be entitled to.

Getting Organized Makes Everything Easier

Dealing with government agencies while grieving is exhausting. Having your documents organized, knowing what information you need, and understanding what steps come next makes every one of these calls faster and less stressful.

The Complete Estate Administration Suite at mynextstepsupport.com gives you the structure to move through this process one step at a time without missing anything important.

Visit mynextstepsupport.com to get started.

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