Dec
09
2011
By Guest (not verified)
My 90 year old uncle was widowed a week ago when my aunt died. They ahd been maried for many years. Her benefits were much larger than his. Am I to understand that his benefits will automatically increase without our contacting the office or completing any paperwork? Thank you!
Social Security - when a beneficiary dies
You should contact Social Security regarding the passing of your aunt.
When a beneficiary dies, a family member or other person responsible for the beneficiary's affairs should promptly notify Social Security of the beneficiary's death by calling SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213.
If your uncle was getting benefits as a your aunt's work, when you report the death to Social Security, they will change his payments to survivors benefits.
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/deathbenefits.htm
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10084.html