How to Apply for Social Security for a Child With a Deceased Parent

You can apply for survivors benefits by telephone or in person.

Social Security is known by many to be a monthly retirement benefit to employees who have contributed to the Social Security payment system during their lifetime. Many people, however, are unaware of the survivors benefit and one-time death payment available to the children, dependent parents and surviving spouse of a deceased worker. Survivors benefits and one-time death payments should be sought as soon after the death of a worker as possible by applying with the Social Security Administration.

Instructions

1. Read the eligibility requirements to determine if the child meets the requirements. The requirements are listed on the website of the Social Security Administration (SSA) (see Resources). Unmarried children age 18 and younger (or age 19, if still in school) can receive benefits, as can a child of any age who was disabled before age 22.

2. Gather the documents necessary to support an application for survivors benefits. The documents are listed at the SSA website and include proof of death, Social Security numbers for the child and the deceased worker, birth certificate of the child, and the deceased worker's most recent W-2 form or federal self-employment tax return. The documents must be submitted in original or with a certification from the issuing agency.

3. Apply for benefits in person or by telephone. Complete the application with all relevant documents. Be sure to indicate that the child is also seeking the one-time death payment, which is $255 as of 2011.

Tips & Warnings

• When applying on behalf of a minor child, be prepared to indicate your relationship to the child (relative, neighbor, guardian). You may also be required to explain your interest in completing the application.

• File the application promptly. Benefits are paid from the time of application and do not date back to the time the worker died.

References

• Social Security Administration: Frequently Asked Questions: Eligibility of Children on a Deceased Parents Record
• Social Security Administration: Survivors Benefits

Resources

• Social Security Administration: Online Claims and Services