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Important Forms
Social Security
Question: What is the maximum lump sum death benefit paid by social security?
Answer: $255.00
Question: Who is eligible to receive the lump sum death benefit?
Answer: The surviving spouse living with the covered worker at the time of death, or a child if he/she was entitled to or eligible for social security monthly benefits on the deceased’s record during the month of death of the deceased worker.
Question: What do I need to take to the social security office to facilitate receiving social security benefits?
Answer:
- Marriage License
- Children’s birth certificates
- Proof of widow’s age (62 or older)
- Social security number
- Total wages paid on W-2 form or schedule “C” for preceding year
- Death certificate
Question: When will I begin receiving benefits?
Answer: It usually requires about three months for a widow to start receiving social security benefits.
You may call Social Security toll-free, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. The number to use is 1-800-772-1213. To speak with a representative, call between the hours of 7:00am and 7:00pm on regular business days. At other times and on weekends and holidays you may leave a message and they will call you back, in most cases, the next business day.
You may use the toll-free number to make an appointment either in a Social Security office or telephone to apply for benefits, transact other Social Security business, or just ask questions. You may also contact the local Social Security office:
334 Washington Street suite 225
Johnstown, PA 15901
1-800-772-1213