Questions about Social Security Death Benefits
Persons who receive Social Security are
eligible for burial allowances.
How much is the death gratuity benefit?
The payment is $255
Who will receive the payment?
The death benefit is paid to:
• A spouse with whom the deceased
was living, or
• A dependent minor child
How do we file a claim for Social Security
burial allowance.
• The mortuary can notify the
Social Security Administration of the death with Social Security form
SSA-721
• The mortuary cannot file a
claim for Social Security burial allowances
• Survivors can also contact
the Social Security Administration directly
Claims are made by the survivors with
the Social Security office closest to the home of the person filing
the claim
Note: This information
is intended only as an introduction and not the final authority on
these matters. Procedures and benefits will change from time to time.
Courtesy - VA Roseburg Healthcare System Chaplain Service.
