The one-time death benefit is $255 and it can be paid to a surviving spouse (legally married) who lived in the same residence, though if the spouse lived elsewhere, he or she may still be eligible for the money. If there is NO surviving eligible spouse, a child may receive this if the child was eligible for benefits on the deceased person’s work record. If no spouse or child can legally claim the money, it won’t be paid.

To file for the benefit, make an appointment with your local Social Security office OR speak to your funeral director!   Social Security will contribute $255 towards a cemetery headstone for a covered WORKER.

Social Security Survivors Benefits can be paid to:
1. A widow/widower–full benefits at full retirement age or reduce benefits as early as age 60
2. A disabled widow or widower as early as age 50
3. A widow or widower at any age if he or she takes care of the deceased’s child who is under 16 or disabled/ and receiving S.S. benefit
4, Unmarried children under 8, or up to age 19 if they are attending high school full-time
5, Under certain circumstances, benefits can be paid to step-children, grandchildren or adopted children
6. Children at any age who were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled
7. Dependent parents aged 62 or older