Most of us don't like to talk about death or even think about it. But isn’t it comforting to know that Social Security has survivors benefits to protect families who are affected by the death of a wage earner?
If you are working and paying into Social Security, some of those taxes you pay are for survivors insurance. Your spouse, children, and parents could be eligible for benefits based on your earnings.
You are also protected when your spouse, parent, or adult child dies. You and your family could be eligible for benefits based on the earnings of the person who died.
Planning For Your Survivors
Social Security can help your family if you have earned enough Social Security credits through your work.
If You Are The Survivor
Social Security benefits that may be available if you are the survivor of a worker who dies.
How You Apply
We should be notified as soon as possible when a person dies.