Death Benefits

As soon as possible after death occurs, survivors should take steps to determine the availability of death benefits. Almost all benefits must be applied for and are not provided automatically. Among the benefits survivors may be entitled to are highlighted below.

Social Security Death Benefits
The Social Security Administration provides assistance to eligible survivors of an eligible beneficiary by way of a "lump sum death benefit" (currently $255). This death benefit is payable only to a spouse or minor dependent children of the deceased. The surviving spouse and minor children can also be entitled to monthly benefit checks. Consumers should contact their local Social Security office for any information and assistance.

Veterans Administration Death Benefits
The Veterans Benefits Counselor at the nearest VA regional office or a local veterans service organization representative should be contacted regarding survivor benefits and to secure a burial flag and/or burial in a national cemetery. If requested to do so, the funeral provider can alert the VA insurance division so that an insurance claim form is sent to the veteran's beneficiary without inquiry on the beneficiary's part. Veteran's mortuary benefits are available only if the veteran was:

1. receiving a pension or compensation for military service,
   
2. in a veterans hospital at the time of death,
   
3. indigent at the time of death.

Other Death Benefits

• Life or casualty insurance -- If death results from a motor vehicle accident, benefits might be provided under no-fault insurance provisions.

• Employer's payments -- These could include severance pay and/or vacation time.

• Credit unions, trade unions, and fraternal organizations.

• Federal Government Railroad Retirement Board insurance -- Providers to survivors of railroad employees, either active or retired, but depending on length of service.

• State victims of crime statutes -- Some states provide benefits to survivors of a crime victim.

• Federal, state, or local government employees' benefit programs.

• State or local welfare allowances.

The consumer should be wary of any high-pressure promotions for prearrangement, and should have all oral promises put in writing. Also, the consumer should be aware that any contract signed in the home over $25, and away from the merchant's place of business, may be cancelled in writing within three business days.