Social Security pays beneficiaries regularly and some people are so sad after the passing, that they forget about payments. In fact, it could be a Social Security beneficiary, but it could also affect those who have Medicare. Do not forget that the sooner you sort everything out, the better. You might not be strong enough to carry on and put up with these tasks, but you can ask for help.
Social Security wants you to tell them about the beneficiary’s death so as to sort everything out. SSA is the organization in charge of dealing with death certificates. They will certainly process all the information related to Medicare and Social Security. Do not leave it for tomorrow, since putting it off could be considered fraud. So, if you do not report someone’s death and benefit from those payments you will be in trouble.
It is true that many people do not know what to do, but Social Security is always there to help and support you. So, you had better ask them about it. Take into account that the first piece of information SSA will ask you for is the Social Security number from the defunct. In this way, they can cancel all the payments. It is always best to find out where the closest office is. Phone them if you prefer at 1-800-772-1213.
How can I know which is the closest Social Security Office?
Do not worry if you do not have the foggiest idea of where the closest SSA office is. There is a tool that allows you to check where it is. You will only need to type your ZIP Code. If you happen to be abroad, you may want to check Services Outside the United States. It is of vital importance that you know how to halt or cease those SS check payments.
According to SSA, they cannot pay any benefits for the month when the beneficiary died. For instance, if your loved one passed away in November, and you receive a check in December, you will have to give it back. If you do not return that payment, there might be consequences. There are several penalties that you might end up paying.
To avoid this, you will have to send the check to the Regional Financial Center or RFC. This is through the U.S. Treasury Department. Once you get the check, there is an address on the envelope. If you cannot find it, you could simply go to the closest Social Security Office and pay for it there. Remember to state the reason why you had to pay back that check. Finally, find out if you have any SS survivor benefits available as well.