SSA Death Benefits Guide for Federal and Postal Employees
Have you ever wondered what financial support is available to your family if you, as a federal or postal employee, were to pass away? Understanding SSA death benefits and Social Security survivor benefits ensures your loved ones are protected.
Reporting a Death to the SSA
When a federal or postal employee dies, notifying the Social Security office is essential. Funeral directors typically report the date of death if given the deceased’s Social Security number. Otherwise, a family member should contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). (ssa.gov)
Lump-Sum Death Benefit
The SSA provides a one-time $255 payment to eligible survivors, typically the spouse or child.
Social Security Survivor Benefits
Who Is Eligible for Survivor Benefits?
Survivor benefits provide monthly payments based on the deceased’s earnings. Eligible recipients include:
- Spouse: Full benefits at full retirement age or reduced benefits starting at age 60.
- Children: Unmarried children under 18 (or up to 19 if in school full-time) or disabled before age 22.
- Dependent Parents: Age 62 or older, who depended on the deceased for at least half of their support.
How Benefits Are Calculated
The SSA calculates benefits based on the deceased’s earnings record, ensuring financial institutions process payments accurately.
Survivor Benefits for Federal Employees Under FERS
Basic Employee Death Benefit
Available to spouses if the employee had at least 18 months of creditable service. The benefit equals 50% of the final salary plus a lump sum. (opm.gov)
Monthly Annuity
If the deceased had at least 10 years of service, the surviving spouse may receive a monthly annuity.
Children’s Benefits
Unmarried dependent children may receive benefits until age 18 (or 22 if full-time students). Disabled children can receive benefits indefinitely.
Postal Employee Survivor Benefits
Postal employees are covered under FERS and receive the same survivor benefits as other federal employees. The U.S. Postal Service offers guidance on available benefits.
Medicare and Health Benefits for Survivors
Surviving family members may continue health insurance under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program. If the deceased was Medicare-eligible, surviving spouses may qualify for continued Medicare coverage.
Applying for Survivor Benefits
Required Documents
Gather necessary documents, including:
- Death certificate
- Social Security numbers
- Birth and marriage certificates
- W-2 forms or federal self-employment tax returns
Steps to Apply
- Notify the Employer: Contact the employing agency for guidance.
- Contact the SSA: Apply for benefits by calling the SSA or visiting an office.
- Complete Necessary Forms: Such as SSA-8 (Application for Lump-Sum Death Payment).
Additional Considerations
Life Insurance Benefits
Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) benefits can be claimed by contacting the Office of Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
Beneficiaries should contact the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board to claim funds.
Fairness Act and Other Legal Considerations
The Fairness Act ensures federal survivor benefits are distributed equitably among eligible dependents.
Conclusion
Understanding SSA death benefits and survivor programs can be overwhelming. By staying informed, you can ensure your family’s financial security. Contact The Benefit Coordinators to help you to begin the claims process and secure the benefits your loved ones deserve.
