Social Security Benefits

Eligibility Criteria:

To receive Social Security benefits, the deceased worker must have accumulated a certain number of work credits under Social Security. The requirements vary depending on the age at the time of death. Monthly benefits may be received by:

- Widows or widowers aged 60 or older (50 if disabled), or at any age if caring for a child under 16 or disabled.

- Divorced widows or widowers aged 60 or older (50 if disabled) if the marriage lasted at least 10 years, or if caring for a child under 16 or disabled.

- Unmarried children up to age 18 (19 if attending primary or secondary school full-time).

- Children disabled before turning 22, provided they remained disabled.

- Dependent parent(s) aged 62 or older.

Lump-Sum Death Payment:

In addition to monthly benefits, a one-time payment of $255 is made. The LSDP is distributed in the following order of priority:

- Surviving spouse living in the same household at the time of death.

- Surviving spouse eligible for or entitled to benefits for the month of death.

- Child or children eligible for or entitled to benefits for the month of death.

Applying for Benefits:

Applying is necessary to receive benefits. You can apply at any Social Security office, by telephone, or online at www.ssa.gov. For telephone applications, call the toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment or arrange for the local office to take your claim.

Contacting Social Security:

You can reach Social Security toll-free, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, at 1-800-772-1213. Visit www.ssa.gov for online services. Representatives are available for assistance from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm on regular business days. Messages left during other times will be promptly addressed, typically on the next business day. This toll-free number can be used to schedule appointments, apply for benefits, conduct Social Security business, or seek information.