When a loved one who was receiving Social Security passes away, the government offers a one-time financial support of $255. This payment, although modest, is meant to help the surviving family handle immediate costs following the death. It’s known as the Social Security lump-sum death payment, and it’s not given automatically—there are rules around who can receive it and how to claim it.
Generally, this benefit is offered to the surviving spouse, or in some cases, the deceased’s children. Eligibility depends on specific criteria, such as the living arrangements at the time of death or whether someone is already receiving Social Security benefits based on the deceased’s record. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s important to reach out to the Social Security Administration (SSA) for guidance.
Who Can Receive the $255 Death Payment?
The lump-sum death payment isn’t available to everyone. It’s typically reserved for:
- A surviving spouse who was living with the deceased at the time of their death.
- A spouse who was not living with the deceased but was already receiving benefits based on their Social Security record.
- Children who are unmarried and meet certain conditions, such as being under 18, still in school, or having a qualifying disability.
If there’s no eligible spouse, a child may be able to claim the payment. The rules can sometimes be a bit unclear, so contacting SSA is the best way to confirm eligibility in your specific situation.
How to Apply for the Payment
To receive this one-time death benefit, you need to apply within two years of the person’s passing. The process isn’t automatic, and delays in applying could make things harder, especially when gathering the necessary paperwork.
You can apply in two simple ways:
- Call Social Security at 800-772-1213, or
- Visit your nearest Social Security office in person.
Documents You’ll Need
Before you start the application, gather these documents to avoid delays:
- Proof of death, like a death certificate or a statement from the funeral home
- Social Security numbers for both you and the deceased
- Your birth certificate
- Marriage certificate, if you’re the surviving spouse
- Divorce papers, if you’re applying as an ex-spouse
If You’re Applying for a Child
If the benefit is being claimed for a child, here’s what you’ll need:
- The child’s birth certificate
- The child’s Social Security number
- The deceased person’s latest W-2 forms or tax returns
These help Social Security confirm the child’s relationship to the deceased and check if they meet the eligibility requirements.
When You’ll Get the Payment
Once your application is approved, the $255 payment will be directly deposited into your bank account. Be sure to provide accurate bank details to avoid any delays. Remember, this is a one-time payment and does not affect any other survivor benefits you may be eligible for from Social Security.
Although $255 might not seem like much, this small lump-sum can provide some immediate relief during a difficult time. What’s most important is knowing that this benefit won’t come automatically—you need to apply, and you must do it within the deadline. Take the time to collect the necessary documents, confirm your eligibility, and reach out to Social Security for help if needed. It’s a simple step that can make a small but meaningful difference.
