Get Decedent's Social Security Number

You can do so by signing up for direct deposit, which sends payments directly into your bank account. Or, you can have your benefits automatically deposited into your Direct Express® Debit MasterCard® account. Direct deposit is a simple, safe, and secure way to get benefits. What is the Direct Express® card?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) assigns nine-digit Social Security numbers (SSNs) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents and eligible nonimmigrant workers in the United States. SSA uses SSNs to report wages to the government, track Social Security benefits and for other identification purposes.

Provide the deceased person's Social Security number to the funeral director so they can report the death to the SSA. Look up and contact your local Social Security office. Or call the SSA's main number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to make the report.

To proceed, make an electronic Request for Deceased Individual's Social Security Record. Or, print and complete Form SSA-711 and send us a check or money order for the appropriate fee, made payable to the Social Security Administration. If you prefer, you may pay by credit card.

You can apply for benefits by calling our national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or by visiting your local Social Security office. An appointment is not required, but if you call ahead and schedule one, it may reduce the time you spend waiting to apply.

Step 1: Obtain a Notification of Death A Notification of Death (DHA1663) must be obtained from a doctor/pathologist in order to report the death to the Department of Home Affairs.

If you suspect that you have been incorrectly listed as deceased on your Social Security record, please visit your local Social Security office as soon as possible. Please make sure to bring one of the following pieces of identification. Church membership that establishes your identity.