What to do if someone dies

Funeral homes generally tell us when someone dies. So, you don’t typically need to report a death to us.

If a funeral home isn’t involved or doesn't report the death for some reason, you should call us and provide the name, Social Security number, date of birth, and date of death for the person who died.

Outside the United States

Lump-sum death payment

A spouse might get a one-time death benefit payment of $255. If there’s no spouse, minor children may be eligible for the payment.

A spouse who doesn’t live in the same home may be eligible if they can get benefits based on the record of the person who died.

You must apply for this payment within 2 years of the family member’s death.

Survivor benefits

Certain family members may be eligible for monthly Survivor benefit payments.