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Social Security Lump Sum Death Payment
Eligibility Scenario: Spouse Had Work Credits
undefined Social Security Lump Sum Death Payment?
undefined Social Security Lump Sum Death Payment?
To be eligible for this payment you must be a surviving spouse who was living in the same household with the worker when he or she died. If they were living apart, the surviving spouse can still receive the lump-sum if, during the month the worker died, the spouse met one of the following requirements:
- Was already receiving benefits on the worker's record.
- Became eligible for benefits upon the worker's death.
If there's no eligible surviving spouse, the lump-sum can be paid to the worker's child (or children) if, during the month the worker died, the child met one of the following requirements:
- Was already receiving benefits on the worker's record.
- Became eligible for benefits upon the worker's death.
You could receive a LSDP if your spouse had enough work credits and if Social Security has not already paid you a LSDP.
undefined Social Security Lump Sum Death Payment?
If the eligible surviving spouse or child is not currently receiving benefits, they must apply for this payment within two years of the date of death.
Widows, widowers, and surviving divorced spouses cannot apply online for survivor’s benefits. For application information, please visit the How To Apply page.
Would you like more information about the lump sum death payment?
Visit SSA's Publications Page and review Chapter 4 of the Social Security Handbook.
Would you like more information about Social Security credits?
Visit SSA's Publications Page and review "Social Security: How You Earn Credits," Social Security Publication Number 05-10072.
You may also contact Social Security by phone at:
1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)