Guide
The Social Security $255 Death Payment, Explained
Who actually gets the one-time $255 payment, how to claim it, and the survivor benefits that are worth far more.
What the $255 payment is
Social Security pays a one-time lump-sum death payment of $255 when a worker who paid into Social Security dies. The amount has been fixed by law since 1954, which is why it sounds oddly small. It will not cover a funeral, but it takes ten minutes to claim and it is yours.
Who can get it
First in line is a surviving spouse who was living with the person at the time of death. If there is no such spouse, a spouse or child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased person's record can receive it. If nobody qualifies under those rules, the payment simply is not made.
How to claim it
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit a local office. You cannot apply for this payment online. You must apply within two years of the death.
The funeral home usually reports the death to Social Security, but reporting is not the same as applying. The survivor still has to ask for the payment.
The bigger money: monthly survivor benefits
While you are on the phone, ask about monthly survivor benefits. Widows and widowers can often collect from age 60 (50 if disabled), minor and disabled children qualify, and even a surviving divorced spouse may qualify after a 10-year marriage. Over time these are worth vastly more than $255.
Also important: any Social Security payment received for the month of death or later must be returned. Do not spend the deceased person's final check until you confirm which month it covers.
Questions families ask
Straight answers
Can I apply for the $255 online?
No. The lump-sum death payment requires a phone call to 1-800-772-1213 or a visit to a Social Security office. Apply within two years of the death.
Does the $255 go toward the funeral bill?
No. It is paid directly to the eligible spouse or child, not to the funeral home, and you can use it however you need.
Sources
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