Someone died

What to do in the first weeks, and help for the family.

What to do first

Give the funeral home the person's Social Security number. They usually tell Social Security about the death.
Order several copies of the death certificate. Banks and agencies will ask for one.
Call Social Security to ask about survivor benefits.
If the person served in the military, ask VA about burial benefits.
If you lost health coverage, pick a new plan soon.

Tell us more about what happened. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.

These windows are set by federal rules. Your state may have its own dates too, so ask the agency.

2 years
Social Security death payment
A surviving spouse may get a one-time payment of $255. If there is no spouse, a child may get it. Apply within 2 years of the death.
Source: SSA.gov
60 days
Health coverage
If the death means you lose your health plan, you can sign up for a Marketplace plan. You have 60 days.
Source: HealthCare.gov

These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.

SSA.gov
Survivor benefits from Social Security
A widow or widower, an ex-spouse, children, and parents who depended on the person may get monthly benefits. Call Social Security to apply.
Official page Call 1-800-772-1213
VA.gov
Burial benefits for veterans
VA can help pay for a veteran's burial and funeral, and offers burial in a VA national cemetery.
Official page Call 1-800-827-1000
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
HealthCare.gov
The federal marketplace for health insurance plans. Many people can get lower monthly costs based on their income.
Apply online at HealthCare.gov or by phone during open enrollment, or after a big change like losing other coverage.
Apply on HealthCare.gov Call 1-800-318-2596

Checked on October 9, 2026

Checked on October 9, 2026