Social Security survivor benefits are monthly payments for family members of someone who died and paid into Social Security. The amount you can get depends on how much the person who died earned while working.
Who can get survivor benefits?
Children:
- Unmarried children under 18
- Children under 19 who are still in high school full-time
- Children of any age who became disabled before age 22
In some cases, stepchildren, grandchildren, and adopted children can also get benefits.
Spouses:
- Widows and widowers
- Parents who are caring for the deceased worker's child
Parents:
- In some cases, the deceased worker's parents may qualify
How survivor benefits affect other benefits
Getting survivor benefits may affect your eligibility for:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits
How to apply for survivor benefits
Step 1: Report the death as soon as possible
You need to tell the Social Security Administration (SSA) right away when someone dies. This is important because:
- You cannot apply online
- Some benefits may not be available retroactively (going back in time)
- The sooner you apply, the sooner you can get help
Ways to report a death:
- Ask the funeral home to report it (if you give them the deceased person's Social Security number, they can usually do this for you)
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Visit your local Social Security office
- Find your local office using the SSA's Office Locator
Step 2: Apply for benefits
If you are already getting benefits based on the deceased person's record:
- You usually don't need to file a new application
- The SSA will automatically change your benefits to survivor benefits when they get the death report
- They may also automatically pay a Special Lump-Sum Death Payment
If you are getting retirement or disability benefits based on your own work record:
- You need to apply separately for survivor benefits
- The SSA will check if you can get a higher benefit as a widow or widower
If you are not currently getting benefits:
- Apply as soon as possible
- Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office
Step 3: Gather your documents
You will need different documents depending on what type of benefit you are applying for. Generally, you need:
- Social Security numbers for you and the person who died
- Birth certificates
- Proof of death (death certificate)
- Banking information for direct deposit
- Marriage certificate (for widow/widower benefits)
Don't have all the documents? You can still apply. The SSA can help you get the information you need.
Important: When mailing documents to SSA:
- Write the Social Security number on a separate piece of paper
- Do not write on the original documents
Questions?
Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local office.
Last Reviewed: July 6, 2023