What If I Die While My Claim is Pending?

The death of a Social Security disability claimant does not necessarily mean the end of the claim. For regular Title II SSD benefits, the back benefit payable to someone who dies can be recovered by the surviving spouse, a child, or a parent based on particular circumstances of each case. This is always a tragic situation; however, the decedent paid into the Social Security system, and the disability process recognizes the right to benefits payable to family and loved ones.

For Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claimants, the rules are different. Only a surviving spouse living with the decedent can obtain back benefits upon the individual’s death. For more information, contact us today.