What is a social security death file and how do you get contact information from there?

Question: My sister passed away several years ago. She was a single mom and I’ve been taking care of her kids. We want to apply for social security benefits for the kids, but I’m not really sure how to prove her death after all this time. Is there some sort of social security death file or social security master death file that will list her name and information so the kids can collect their benefits?

Response: Social security has a death master file that contains records of all deaths that have been reported to social security. Typically, you will need the death certificate as well as the children’s birth certificates in order to apply for survivor’s benefits for the children. If you do not have access to the death certificate, it may be possible to obtain a copy from your state’s vital records office. If you have questions about getting a copy of the death certificate, using the social security death master file, or applying for survivors’ benefits, you should consult with an experienced social security attorney.

Answered by Christy Rakoczy

Additional Resources: Social Security Benefits for Children

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