Social Security Death Benefit

When a fully or currently insured worker dies, a on time lump-sum death benefit of $225 may be paid. The benefit generally must be applied for within two years after the worker dies. The benefit is paid to the surviving spouse who was living in the same household as the deceased worker at the time of the decedent's death. If there is no such surviving spouse, the benefit is paid to the surviving spouse (excluding a divorced spouse) who was not living with the worker, but who is eligible for benefits based on the deceased worker's primary insurance amount (PIA). If there is no surviving spouse, payment may be made to the deceased's parent entitled to benefits. If there is no surviving spouse or parent, the payment is divided among children who are eligible for benefits based on the deceased worker's PIA. The lump sum will not be paid if there is no qualifying surviving spouse or children.