Money and accounts
What happens to their Social Security payments?
Short answer
Payments stop at death. Any payment received for the month of death must be returned. The funeral home typically notifies SSA, but you can also call 1-800-772-1213. Do not spend a Social Security payment that arrives after death.
What this usually means
Payments stop at death. Any payment received for the month of death must be returned. The funeral home typically notifies SSA, but you can also call 1-800-772-1213. Do not spend a Social Security payment that arrives after death.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.