When a parent dies, their eligible dependents may be able to collect survivors benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). These benefits are intended to provide financial support to the surviving family members of the deceased.
To be eligible for survivors benefits, you must meet certain criteria set by the SSA. For example, you must be the deceased person’s child, spouse, or ex-spouse who was married to the deceased for at least 10 years. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old, or at least 50 years old if you are disabled, and you must not be currently married (unless you are collecting benefits as a divorced spouse).
If you are eligible for survivors benefits, you can begin collecting them as early as the month after your parent’s death. The amount of benefits you receive will depend on a variety of factors, including your parent’s work history and the amount of social security benefits they were receiving at the time of their death.
To collect survivors benefits, you will need to provide the SSA with certain documentation, such as your parent’s death certificate and proof of your relationship to the deceased. You can apply for benefits online, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office.
It’s important to keep in mind that survivors benefits are not meant to replace the income of the deceased parent, but rather to provide financial support to the surviving family members. If you have any questions or concerns about collecting survivors benefits, it’s best to contact the SSA directly for more information.
