When someone who has been receiving Social Security benefits passes away, their family members might be eligible for a one-time payment from the Social Security Administration (SSA). This payment, called the Social Security Death Benefit, is meant to help the family with immediate financial support during a tough time. However, not everyone is eligible for this benefit, and there are specific rules to follow when applying for it. In this article, we will explain how to apply for the $255 one-time Social Security death benefit, the eligibility criteria, required documents, and the steps to complete the application process.
What Is the Social Security Death Benefit?
The Social Security Death Benefit is a one-time payment of $255 provided by the SSA to the surviving family members of a Social Security beneficiary who has passed away. This payment is intended to offer quick financial assistance to those who might be struggling with funeral costs or other immediate expenses after the death of a loved one. The benefit is separate from other survivor benefits, such as ongoing monthly benefits for the spouse or children.
Who Is Eligible for the $255 Social Security Death Benefit?
Not everyone can receive the $255 death benefit. Only certain family members are eligible. These include:
Surviving Spouse
The surviving spouse is eligible for the death benefit if they were living with the deceased at the time of death. If the spouse and the deceased were living apart, the spouse can still qualify if they were receiving certain Social Security benefits based on the deceased person’s work history.
Surviving Children
Children of the deceased can also qualify for the death benefit, but only if they meet specific criteria. They must be unmarried and meet the SSA’s requirements regarding age or disability. For example, the child must be under 18 years old or between 18 and 19 years old and still attending high school full time. Disabled children may also qualify regardless of age if they were disabled before the age of 22.
Work History of the Deceased
To qualify for the death benefit, the deceased person must have worked long enough under Social Security to have earned the necessary credits. This typically means they must have worked for a certain number of years and paid into Social Security.
How to Apply for the Social Security Death Benefit?
Once the family members determine that they are eligible for the benefit, they need to apply within two years of the death. It’s crucial to follow the correct process to ensure the payment is received without delay.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, it’s important to gather the necessary documents. The required documents may include:
- Proof of death: This can be a funeral home statement or a death certificate.
- Social Security numbers: You will need to provide the Social Security numbers of both the deceased and the applicant (the surviving spouse or child).
- Birth certificates: The applicant’s birth certificate may be needed to confirm their identity.
- Marriage certificate: If the applicant is a surviving spouse, the marriage certificate is necessary. If there was a divorce, divorce documents may also be required.
- W-2 or tax returns: The deceased’s most recent W-2 forms or federal tax returns may be needed.
Step 2: Apply by Phone or In-Person
You can apply for the Social Security Death Benefit by either calling the SSA at 800-772-1213 or by visiting a local Social Security office. When applying in person, make sure to bring all required documents to avoid delays. It’s also a good idea to keep copies of all the paperwork you submit.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Once you’ve gathered all necessary documents, you can submit your application. The SSA will process the application and review the provided documents to ensure everything is in order. This might take a few weeks, so it’s important to be patient.
How Is the Payment Processed?
Once the SSA has approved the application, the $255 death benefit will be directly deposited into the applicant’s bank account. To ensure this payment is made without any issues, it’s important to provide accurate banking details during the application process. The payment will be a one-time lump sum, and it will not affect any other Social Security benefits the family may be entitled to, such as survivor benefits.
Why Is It Im important to Apply Quickly?
It’s important to apply for the Social Security Death Benefit as soon as possible after the death of the loved one. The SSA has a two-year deadline for submitting the application. If the application is not submitted within this timeframe, the family will lose out on this benefit. Applying early also helps avoid any delays in processing the payment, giving the family access to the financial support they need.
Conclusion
The Social Security Death Benefit is a one-time payment that can provide much-needed financial help to the family of a deceased person who was receiving Social Security benefits. To qualify, the surviving spouse or children must meet specific eligibility requirements, and the application must be submitted within two years of the death. It’s crucial to gather all the necessary documents and provide accurate information to ensure a smooth application process. Once approved, the payment will be directly deposited into the applicant’s bank account. Though small, this benefit can help with immediate expenses and offer some relief during a difficult time.
FAQ’s
What is the 4% rule in retirement?
The 4% rule suggests withdrawing 4% of your retirement savings annually to ensure that your money lasts for 30 years. For example, with $1.8 million, you could withdraw $72,000 per year or $6,000 per month.
How can I boost my Social Security benefits in retirement?
Delaying your Social Security benefits until you turn 70 can increase your monthly payment by up to 32%. This strategy helps you secure a higher, inflation-adjusted income for life.
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