What You Need to Know About Filing for a Social Security Death Benefit
After a spouse passes, there could be changes to your Social Security. To avoid any added stress and clear up any confusion, KOLD in Tucson, Arizona, did a report explaining what to expect.
It’s important to understand that Social Security payments are a month behind. When a person dies, the final payment needs to be returned. So, if someone were to pass away in April, the May payment (which covers April) needs to be returned. If payments are made via direct deposit, the bank should take care of returning the funds.
Social Security does provide a $255 lump-sum death benefit. To receive it, survivors must file form SSA-8 within two years. You will be asked to provide documentation such as a death certificate, proof of the relationship, Social Security numbers, and other details.
The Seniors Trust is committed to improving the financial well-being of older Americans through the passage of the Social Security Expansion Act. It will give retirees an immediate benefits increase of about $200 a month, a fair annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), increased minimum benefits, and ensure the long-term solvency of the Social Security program.
