FAQ-Social SecurityDoes Social Security provide a death benefit?> Does Social Security provide a death benefit? Your funeral director will prepare the necessary social security forms. Who is eligible to receive social security benefits? In order for a family member to receive benefits, the deceased worker must have credit for work covered by Social Security, ranging from 1 ½ to 10 years depending on his or her age at death.The following family members may receive benefits: • A widow or widower age 60 or older (50 if disabled), or at any age if caring for an entitled child who is under 16 or disabled. • A divorced widow or widower age 60 or older (50 if disabled) if the marriage lasted 10 years, or if caring for an entitled child who is under 16 or disabled. • Unmarried children up to 18 (19 if they are attending a primary or secondary school full lime). • Children who were disabled before reaching 22, as long as they remained disabled. • Dependent parent or parents 62 or older. How do I apply for social security benefits? You may apply at any Social Security office or, if you wish, you may apply by telephone. Just dial the toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 and the operator will schedule an appointment for you or arrange for the local Social Security office to take your claim by telephone. To speak with a representative, call between the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 pm on regular business days. At other times and on weekends and holidays, you may leave a message and they will call you back, in most cases, the next business day.Where can I get more information on social security benefits?
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