If You Are Already Getting Social Security Benefits

• If you are getting benefits on your spouse's or parent's record when he or she dies, you should report the death to us. We will change your monthly payments to survivors benefits. To report the death, call or visit your local Social Security office or call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

• We'll automatically change any benefits for children to survivor benefits after the death is reported to us.

• If you are getting retirement or disability benefits on your own record, you will need to apply for the survivor benefits. Call or visit us. We will check to see whether you can get a higher benefit as a widow or widower.