Does Social Security Give You Money for Burial?

The Social Security Administration provides support to individuals and families across the United States. This agency offers various benefits designed to provide a safety net. Among these is a specific, limited payment to assist with financial burdens following an eligible individual’s death.

The Social Security Lump-Sum Death Payment

When an eligible person passes away, the Social Security Administration provides a one-time Lump-Sum Death Payment (LSDP). This payment is a fixed amount of $255. Its purpose is to offer some financial assistance towards immediate final expenses, such as funeral and burial costs.

This payment has remained at $255 since 1954. While it may not cover the entirety of contemporary funeral expenses, it is intended to provide a small measure of relief during a difficult time. It is a distinct benefit from any ongoing monthly survivor benefits.

Determining Eligibility for Payment

Eligibility for the Lump-Sum Death Payment is specific and follows a defined hierarchy. The primary recipient is typically a surviving spouse. To qualify, the surviving spouse must have been living in the same household as the deceased at the time of death.

If the surviving spouse was not living with the deceased, they might still be eligible if they were receiving certain Social Security benefits based on the deceased’s earnings record. This includes situations where the spouse was already collecting spousal benefits or became eligible for survivor benefits upon the worker’s death.

In cases where there is no eligible surviving spouse, certain children may qualify for the Lump-Sum Death Payment. This typically applies to children who were receiving benefits on the deceased’s record. If multiple eligible children exist, the $255 payment is divided equally among them.

Documents and Information Needed

Before initiating an application for the Lump-Sum Death Payment, it is important to gather several key documents and pieces of information. Having these items readily available can help streamline the application process. You will need the deceased person’s Social Security number to begin the claim.

The claimant’s own Social Security number is also required for identification and processing. A certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate is an essential document, as it provides official proof of death. If the claimant is a surviving spouse, a marriage certificate will be necessary to establish the marital relationship.

Additionally, it is advisable to have the contact information for the funeral home that handled the deceased’s arrangements. For direct deposit of the payment, bank account details such as the account number and routing number will be needed.

Applying for the Lump-Sum Death Payment

Once all necessary documents and information have been collected, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to formally apply for the Lump-Sum Death Payment. This specific benefit cannot be applied for online. The most common methods for initiating a claim are by telephone or by visiting a local SSA office.

To apply by phone, individuals can call the SSA’s national toll-free number. An SSA representative will guide the claimant through the process. If choosing to visit a local office, calling ahead to schedule an appointment can potentially reduce wait times.

During the application process, the SSA representative will ask a series of questions to confirm eligibility and gather required details. It is important to provide accurate information and present all gathered documents as requested. Claimants are generally advised to apply for this payment within two years of the date of the deceased’s death.