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Social Security Benefits

Social Security Benefits For Seniors
in the San Angelo & Miles, TX Area

Social Security benefits are paid to widows, widowers, and eligible dependents of workers. In addition to any benefits, eligible survivors are entitled to a lump-sum death payment. Social security benefits can be vital sources of income to seniors or any surviving dependents, so it's important to apply as soon as possible because benefits might not be retroactive. Your funeral director can notify the Social Security office of your loved one's death; if you have any further questions about details, contacting the Social Security office can be a major benefit. 

The following checklist is designed to help you file for your Social Security benefits correctly so that prompt lump-sum death payments may be made. Contact us if you have any questions about the death benefit process or any other Social Security benefit for seniors in the San Angelo and Miles, TX area.

Eligibility

To receive monthly benefits, the deceased worker must have credit for work covered by Social Security ranging from 1 1/2 to 10 years depending on his or her age at death. Those eligible for monthly benefits include:

  • A widow or widower age 60 or older (50 if disabled) or at any age if caring for an entitled child who is under 16 or disabled
  • A divorced widow or widower age 60 or older (50 if disabled) if the marriage lasted 10 years or if caring for an entitled child who is under 16 or disabled
  • Unmarried children up to 18 (19 if they are attending a primary or secondary school full-time)
  • Children who were disabled before reaching 22 as long as they remained disabled
  • Dependent parent or parents 62 or older

If you're not sure whether you qualify for Social Security benefits, or how to apply, your funeral director or the Social Security office can provide additional information.

Lump-Sum Death Payment

A one-time payment of $255 is paid in addition to the monthly cash benefits described above. The lump-sum death payment (LSDP) is paid in the following priority order:

  • A surviving spouse who lived in the same household as the deceased person at the time of death
  • A surviving spouse eligible for or entitled to benefits for the month of death
  • A child or children eligible for or entitled to benefits for the month of death

Applying for Benefits

You must apply in order to receive benefits. You may apply at any Social Security office, by telephone at 1-800-772-1213, or online at www.ssa.gov. You will need to notify the Social Security office of your loved one's death; in most cases, your funeral director can handle this for you. You'll also need to submit proper documentation to confirm your eligibility. The Social Security office will have additional information on what documents you'll need and how to properly submit them.

Death Benefits

A death benefit is different from Social Security benefits, as it comes from a life insurance policy, annuity, or pension when the insured or annuitant passes away. Death benefits from life insurance policies are not subject to income tax and are generally given as a lump-sum payment; however, the policyholder can choose how payments are structured. For example, the policyholder may specify that the beneficiaries receive half of the benefit immediately after death and the other half a year later. Other insurers offer different payment options, including installments and other options. 

Death benefits from retirement accounts are treated differently than life insurance or Social Security benefits, and may be subject to taxation. 

Our team can help explore your options if you are looking for a way to seamlessly pass your death benefits, avoid probate, or if you have other questions. 

Learn More About Social Security Benefits for Seniors

At Harper Funeral Home, our experienced team is always standing by to lend a helping hand. If you have any further questions or concerns regarding Social Security benefits for seniors, be sure to contact one of our knowledgeable representatives. We retain a nuanced understanding of this intricate process, so you can rely on our personnel to guide you along the way.

For years, the staff at our funeral home has continued to assist clients throughout San Angelo, TX and all the surrounding communities. Whether you seek to receive a lump sum death payment or you're in need of grief support services, just say the word. Our certified team will remain by your side throughout each phase of these trying processes.

Harper Funeral Home
Phone: (325) 340-1850
2606 Southland Boulevard , San Angelo, Texas

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