Social Security Benefits
Understanding Social Security Survivors Benefits
Some family members of the deceased may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits if their loved one worked long enough under the Social Security system. It is important to contact the Social Security Administration as soon as possible to ensure the family receives all benefits they may be entitled to.
One-Time Lump Sum Payment
A one-time payment of $255 may be made to the surviving spouse if they were living with the deceased at the time of death or receiving Social Security benefits based on the deceased’s record. If there is no surviving spouse, this payment may be made to an eligible child.
Who May Be Eligible for Monthly Benefits?
The following family members may qualify for ongoing monthly benefits:
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Widow or widower age 60 or older (or age 50 if disabled)
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Surviving spouse of any age caring for the deceased’s child under age 16 or with a disability
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Unmarried child under age 18 (or age 19 if still in high school), or over 18 with a disability that began before age 22
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Parents age 62 or older who depended on the deceased for at least half of their financial support
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Divorced spouse, under qualifying conditions
How to Get More Information
The Social Security Administration (SSA) website is an excellent resource for learning more about survivors benefits and eligibility.
You may also contact Social Security directly:
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Toll-Free: 1-800-772-1213 (7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday–Friday)
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TTY (for hearing impaired): 1-800-325-0778
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Website: www.ssa.gov
Our team at Lloyd Edward Memorial is here to assist you in navigating this process and ensuring that all eligible benefits are claimed for your family.