Social Security Survivor Benefits

Following a death, many families have questions about Social Security benefits and whether they may be eligible for assistance.

While Nelson-Doran Funeral Home cannot determine eligibility or file claims on your behalf, we are happy to point you in the right direction and help you understand the process.

Who May Be Eligible?

Depending on the deceased person's work history and family circumstances, monthly survivor benefits may be available to:

  • A surviving spouse age 60 or older (50 or older if disabled)
  • A surviving spouse of any age who is caring for a child under age 16 or a disabled child entitled to benefits
  • A divorced surviving spouse age 60 or older (50 or older if disabled) if the marriage lasted at least 10 years
  • Unmarried children under age 18 (or age 19 if attending high school full-time)
  • Adult children who became disabled before age 22 and remain disabled
  • Dependent parents age 62 or older

Eligibility is determined by the Social Security Administration based on work credits, age, disability status, and family relationships.

Lump-Sum Death Benefit

In addition to monthly survivor benefits, a one-time $255 Lump-Sum Death Payment (LSDP) may be available.

This payment is generally made in the following order:

  1. A surviving spouse who lived with the deceased at the time of death
  2. A surviving spouse eligible for benefits during the month of death
  3. An eligible child or children

Did You Know?
The Social Security Lump-Sum Death Benefit has remained $255 since 1954 and has not been adjusted for inflation. While modest by today's standards, it remains available to many eligible surviving spouses and children and can help offset some immediate expenses following a death.

How Do I Apply?

Benefits are not paid automatically. An application must be submitted through the Social Security Administration.

You can apply by:

Phone:
1-800-772-1213

Online:
https://www.ssa.gov

Local Social Security Office:
Social Security Administration
8331 Brandon Road
Baxter, MN 56425

Many families find it helpful to schedule an appointment before visiting the office.

Helpful Information to Gather

When applying for survivor benefits, you may be asked to provide:

  • Certified death certificate
  • Social Security numbers
  • Birth certificates
  • Marriage certificate, if applicable
  • Military discharge papers, if applicable
  • Banking information for direct deposit

Questions?

Navigating benefits and paperwork after a loss can feel overwhelming.

If you're unsure where to begin, please ask. While we cannot make eligibility determinations, we can help guide you toward the appropriate resources and provide the documentation needed to support your application process.

Remember—you don't have to figure everything out at once.