Social Security Benefits: Who Will Receive Them When Beneficiaries Die?

The death of a Social Security beneficiary does not necessarily mean the end of their Social Security benefits. In this article, read and find out who will receive the Social Security benefits when a beneficiary dies.

Social Security Survivors [Photo: Social Security Matters]

According to Cariaga, the SSA must immediately be notified when a beneficiary dies. The reporting is usually taken care of by the funeral homes by sending a Statement of Death by Funeral Director form. Otherwise, one can call the SSA by dialing 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Unfortunately, one cannot report a death or apply for survivor benefits online.

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How to Apply For Survivor Benefits

According to O’Brien, to apply for the survivor benefits, an applicant must provide the deceased beneficiary’s Social Security number. Apart from a dependent, the executor of the beneficiary’s estate can also call the SSA. After receiving the report of death, the SSA will automatically change the monthly benefits to the survivor’s benefits. The SSA may also be able to automatically pay a Special Lump-Sum Death Payment. Keep in mind, however, that there will be no Social Security benefits received on the month of the beneficiary’s death.

Furthermore, if a surviving spouse or eligible dependent is already receiving money based on their beneficiary’s record, the benefits will convert to survivor’s benefits as well. Once the surviving spouse reaches their full retirement age, they can already receive the full benefits of their deceased spouse. Application for reduced benefits may also be done as early as age 60 or 50 if disabled.

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