Notify social security

Notifying Social Security is one of the five most important things to do after a loved one’s passing. Social Security offers survivors a $255 one-time death benefit.

The spouse or children may also be eligible for monthly survivor benefits. Additionally, the agency can put the deceased person on a list to prevent fraud.

You do need to call to report the death. But for a first option, you can ask your funeral home (if you are using one) to do so for you. In most cases, funeral directors can report deaths to the Social Security Administration (SSA) as part of their services.

If they don’t offer this service, you can call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

  • You can speak to a Social Security representative between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. They will ask you a number of questions, so be prepared with Social Security numbers.

government benefits, settling affairsJennifer Goodgovernment benefits, financial and property, medical and legalComment