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How to Report a Death to Social Security

Reporting a death to Social Security is a key step after losing a loved one. The process closes the deceased's account. It also starts any survivor benefits the family qualifies for.

This guide walks through how to notify Social Security of death and what benefits survivors may receive.

Who Reports a Death to Social Security?

In most cases, the funeral director makes the initial report. The SSA confirms this is the standard process, according to SSA.gov. The funeral home just needs the deceased's Social Security number.

Family is ultimately responsible. If no funeral home participates, a family member must call Social Security directly.

How to Notify Social Security of Death

The SSA does not take death reports online or by email. You must contact the agency in one of two ways:

Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
Visit a local Social Security office in person

Phone hours run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in most US time zones. We offer service in English, Spanish, and other languages.

What Information Do You Need?

Have the following ready before you call:

The deceased's full legal name and Social Security number
Date of birth and date of death
The death certificate (mailed in separately)
Your own Social Security number, if filing for survivor benefits

A certified death certificate is required for benefit claims. You can order certified copies through State Vital Records.

What Happens After You Report the Death?

The SSA stops monthly benefit payments to the deceased right away. Social Security also notifies Medicare on its own. The agency then checks if any survivors qualify for added benefits.

Any payment received for the month of death or later must be returned. According to USA.gov, keeping these payments creates major problems later.

Survivor Benefits and the $255 Lump Sum

Eligible family members may qualify for two types of benefits.

The one-time lump sum death payment is $255. The SSA pays it to a surviving spouse who lived with the loved one. If no spouse exists, eligible children may get it. Survivors must apply within two years of the death.

Monthly survivor benefits may also apply. A surviving spouse, divorced spouse, unmarried child, or dependent parent could qualify based on the work record.

Order a Certified Death Certificate

A certified death certificate is needed for nearly every step after a death.

Order certified copies through State Vital Records and have them sent to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I report a death to Social Security online? No. The SSA only takes reports by phone or in person.

How long do I have to report a death to Social Security? Notify the SSA as soon as you can. For survivor benefits, you have two years from the death to apply.

What if Social Security paid benefits after the death? Any payment received for the month of death or later must go back to the SSA.