Who Qualifies for Social Security Benefits?
If the deceased person worked long enough under Social Security, some of their family members may be eligible for benefits. Contact Social Security as soon as possible to ensure that the family receives all the benefits they may be entitled to.
Here are some examples of beneficiaries:
Surviving Spouse: If the deceased person was living with their spouse, a one-time payment of $255 can be made. If they were living apart and receiving certain Social Security benefits on the deceased’s record, the payment is made to a child eligible for benefits on the deceased’s record in the month of death. A surviving spouse at any age who is caring for the deceased’s child under 16 or disabled may also be eligible for monthly benefits.
Widow or Widower: A widow or widower aged 60 or older (50 or older if disabled) may be eligible for monthly benefits.
Unmarried Child: An unmarried child of the deceased under 18 (or 18 or 19 if they are a full-time student in elementary or secondary school) or aged 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22 may be eligible for monthly benefits.
Parents: Parents aged 62 or older who were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their support may be eligible for monthly benefits. –
Surviving Divorced Spouse: In certain circumstances, a surviving divorced spouse may be eligible for monthly benefits.
Looking for more information?
In addition to using the Social Security website, you can call the Social Security Administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. Staff can answer specific questions from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. They can also provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call the TTY number at 1-800-325-0778. If you need to report a death, apply for benefits, or have questions about qualifying to receive survivor’s benefits, call 1-800-772-1213. Additional information is available online at ssa.gov/benefits/survivors
Please note: Spicer-Mullikin notifies the Social Security Administration on behalf of the family, but you are strongly encouraged to follow-up.