mother passed away 3-5-2013

My mother passed away, I know she received her check for the past 15 + years on the 3rd of the month And I now have no idea where the money went as she lived with a caregiver. I believe the care giver had a debit card and checks of my mother. do I have any recourse? is there a death benefit? I was left to pay all expenses. the care giver kept all my mothers belongings. I am concerned as to her last check and any other benefits.