Social Security Benefits Assistance

The Hobbs Funeral Home recognizes the complexities of losing a loved one. One of the important issues is how to deal with the deceased’s Social Security. Here is some information that may be helpful.

Survivor benefits from Social Security are normally available for widows or widowers age 60 or older; divorced wives and husbands age 60 or older if married to the deceased for 10 or more years; children up to age 18: parents of the deceased age 62 or older if they were being supported by the deceased … and there are other categories which could be included.

There is also a one-time payment of $255 that is paid to the spouse living with the worker at time of death. If there is no spouse, other family members may be eligible.

Please note: if the deceased was already receiving Social Security checks, any payments which were received after the date of death will need to be returned. If checks were being directly deposited to a bank, the bank(s) also need to be informed of the death.

There will be documents required to apply for these benefits. If you don’t have a document that you need, the Social Security Administration will assist you. Some of the documents and/or information that may be required include:
• Social Security number
• Death Certificate
• Birth Certificate
• Divorce decree, if applicable
• Proof of the deceased’s earnings for the prior year
• Marriage certificate, if applicable
• Children's birth certificate
• Children’s social security number
• Checking or savings account information
(for direct deposit of benefits)

All of the above, as necessary, can be taken to the Social Security office which will make copies for you and return your original documents.

For more information, contact your local Social Security Office or just phone toll-free to 1-800-772-1213, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m..

Hobbs' licensed funeral directors will be glad to help you resolve Social Security issues you may have. Just ask us.