How to Apply for Deceased Spouse's Social Security Benefits

Most widows or widowers are eligible to collect on their deceased spouse's Social Security benefits. It's not possible to collect on both benefits at the same time; however, widows and widowers will usually be able to collect the higher amount. If your spouse is deceased and his or her Social Security benefits are higher than your benefits, you will probably qualify to receive the higher benefit amount. Here is how to apply for a deceased spouse's Social Security benefits.

Things You'll Need

• Birth certificate
• Naturalization papers
• Military discharge papers
• W-2s
• Tax return

Instructions

1. To apply for a deceased spouse's Social Security benefits in person, go to secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp. The link is also located in the resource section below.

2. At the bottom of the webpage enter your five-digit zip code. When applying in person, make sure to bring the necessary original documents. Documents that may be required are a birth certificate, naturalization papers, military discharge papers, W-2s and tax return.

3. Apply for deceased spouse's Social Security benefits over the phone by calling the Social Security Administration's telephone number at [phone]. If you are deaf or have a hard time hearing call [phone].

4. If you reside out of the country are eligible for spouse's Social Security benefits, go to the Social Security Administration's International Operations webpage at socialsecurity.gov/foreign/. The link is also located in the resource section below.

Tips & Warnings

• Even if it has been a while since your spouse passed away, you can still apply for deceased spouse's Social Security benefits.

• If you are divorced you may still qualify for deceased spouse's Social Security benefits.

• If you apply in person, bring a check from your bank account for direct deposits.

Resources

• Social Security Administration Locator
• Social Security Administration-Surviving Spouse Information
• Social Security Administration-Benefit Calculator
• Social Security Administration for People who Reside Outside the U.S.