Social Security Benefits

Who is eligible for survivors benefits? 

Here is a list of family members who usually can get benefits:

• Widows and widowers age 60 or older
• Widows and widowers at any age if caring for the deceased's child/children who are under age 16 or disabled
• Divorced wives and husbands age 60 or older, if married to the deceased 10 years or more
• Widows, widowers, divorced wives, and divorced husbands age 50 or older, if they are disabled
• Children up to age 18
• Children age 18 - 19, if they attend elementary school or high school full time
• Children over age 18, if they became disabled before age 22
• The deceased worker's parents age 62 or older, if they were being supported by the worker

Is there a special one-time payment?

In addition to the monthly benefits for family members, a one-time payment of $255.00 can be paid to a spouse who was living with the worker at the time of death. It can also be paid to (1) a spouse who is eligible for benefits or (2) a child or children eligible for benefits. This payment cannot be made if there is no eligible spouse or child.

How do I apply for benefits?

You can apply for benefits by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213 or by going to any Social Security office. You may need some of the documents shown in the section below. Do not delay your application if you don't have all of the information listed below. If you don't have the necessary documentation, Social Security can help you get it.

What information will I need?

• Your Social Security number and the deceased worker's Social Security number
• A death certificate
• Proof of the deceased worker's earnings for last year (W-2 forms or self-employment tax return)
• Your birth certificate
• A marriage certificate, if you are applying for benefits as a widow, widower, divorced wife, or divorced husband
• A divorce decree, if you are applying for benefits as a divorced wife or husband
• Children's birth certificates and Social Security numbers, if applying for children's benefits
• Your checking or savings account information, if you want direct deposit of your benefits.

You will need to submit original documents or copies certified by the issuing office. You can mail them or bring them to the office. Social Security will make photocopies and return your original documents.