Social Security Benefits

Social Security Benefits Checklist

The following guide is designed to help you properly file for Social Security benefits, ensuring timely payments for you and your family.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Social Security benefits, the deceased must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, with work credits ranging from 1 1/2 to 10 years, depending on their age at the time of death.

Who may receive monthly benefits:

• Widows/Widowers: Age 60 or older (50 if disabled), or at any age if caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child.
• Divorced Widows/Widowers: Age 60 or older (50 if disabled), provided the marriage lasted 10 years, or if caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child.
• Unmarried Children: Up to age 18 (or 19 if attending primary or secondary school full-time).
• Children with Disabilities: If the disability occurred before age 22 and continues.
• Dependent Parents: Aged 62 or older.

Lump-Sum Death Payment (LSDP)

A one-time payment of $255 is provided in addition to monthly benefits. The payment is made in the following order of priority:

1. Surviving spouse who lived with the deceased at the time of death.
2. Surviving spouse eligible for benefits in the month of death.
3. Eligible children of the deceased.

How to Apply for Benefits

You must apply to receive benefits. You can apply in-person at any Social Security office, by phone, or online at www.ssa.gov. To apply by phone, call the toll-free number +1 (800) 772-1213, where an operator will schedule an appointment or arrange for a telephone claim.

Contacting Social Security

Social Security is available 24/7. For inquiries or appointments, call +1 (800) 772-1213.

• Hours to Speak with a Representative: 7:00am – 7:00pm on regular business days.
• After-Hours: Leave a message, and they will call back the next business day.

You can also visit the website www.ssa.gov for more information, to apply for benefits, or to ask questions.