How to Apply for Social Security Survivor Benefits for a Child

If you want to apply for Social Security survivor benefits for a child, there are a few steps that you must follow. You will need to fill out application paperwork and provide documentation to the Social Security office.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Supporting documentation

1. Call a local Social Security office to schedule an appointment to apply in person.
2. You can also apply online (see Resources below), but you must submit a signed copy.
3. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation.
4. Submit original documentation to the Social Security office.

Tips & Warnings

• You will have to submit original documents or copies certified by the office.
• Processing the applications takes time, so be patient.
• You may need some or all of the following documents and information: Social Security number, birth certificate, parents’ W2 forms from last year, military discharge papers, parents’ birth certificates, proof of U.S. citizenship if you weren’t born in the U.S., name of your bank, bank account number and death certificate for the deceased.