Half of America on alert: SSA helps many in their worst moment, quite a relief

When a loved one passes away in the United States, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers financial support to surviving family members. This support can be crucial for facing immediate expenses and keeping financial stability.

Generally, the funeral home is responsible for notifying the SSA of the death. For this, it is necessary to provide them with the deceased's Social Security number. If the funeral home doesn't carry out this procedure, the family members must inform the SSA directly by calling the agency.

Financial assistance available from the SSA after a family member's death

The SSA offers a one-time death payment of $255. This benefit is intended for the surviving spouse who lived with the deceased at the time of their death. If there is no eligible spouse, some children may receive this payment.

In addition to the one-time payment, certain family members may be eligible to receive monthly benefits based on the deceased's work history. Potential beneficiaries include spouses over 60 years old, or over 50 if they have a disability.

Also, spouses of any age who care for a child under 16 years old or with a disability. In turn, unmarried children under 18 years old (or up to 19 if attending high school full-time).

Additionally, they include children with disabilities whose condition began before age 22. And dependent parents over 62 years old who received at least half of their support from the deceased.

The amount of these benefits varies. For example, a spouse at full retirement age may receive up to 100% of the deceased's benefit, while a minor child may receive 75%.

How to proceed to apply for benefits and what happens with improper payments

It is important to know that Social Security benefits are not paid for the month in which the person dies. If a payment is received for that month or later, it must be returned to the SSA. For direct deposit payments, the bank should be contacted to have the funds returned. 

If a check was received, it should not be cashed and must be returned to the SSA as soon as possible. Survivor benefits can't be applied for online; you must contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local office. It is advisable to act promptly, as in some cases benefits are not retroactive.

In difficult times, Social Security in the United States provides significant relief to families facing the loss of a loved one. Knowing these benefits and how to access them can make a big difference in the economic and emotional recovery of the survivors.