Guides / Social Security after a death
Social Security after a death
The funeral home usually reports the death. A spouse or some children may qualify for a one-time $255 payment.
Who tells Social Security
A funeral home usually does. Ask them to confirm it. If you need to report it yourself, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local office.
The one-time payment
Social Security pays $255 to a surviving spouse, or to some children if there's no spouse. You must apply within two years. Call 1-800-772-1213 and say you want to apply for the lump-sum death payment.
Survivor benefits
A spouse, child or dependent parent may qualify for monthly survivor benefits. Ask when you call, because amounts depend on the person's work record.
Railroad workers
If they received Railroad Retirement, report the death to the Railroad Retirement Board at 1-877-772-5772.
Where this comes from
Checked November 6, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. See how we check facts or report a mistake.