How do I apply for a death benefit?
If that is not the case, the survivor must apply for the death benefit within two years of the death. You can apply by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213 or visiting your local office. [Editor’s note: Local Social Security offices are currently closed to walk-in visits due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Who is entitled to death benefit?
If no estate exists or if the executor has not applied for the death benefit, payment may be made to other persons who apply for the benefit in the following order of priority: the person or institution that has paid for or that is responsible for paying for the funeral expenses of the deceased; the next-of-kin of the deceased.
Who is eligible for Social Security lump sum death payment?
Who is eligible for Social Security Lump Sum Death Payment? To qualify for this payment, the surviving spouse must be living in the same household with the worker when he or she died. If they were living apart, the surviving spouse can still receive the lump-sum if, during the month the worker died, the spouse met one of the following requirements: