Your spouse died. What to update first
Check that Social Security was told and ask the agency about survivor benefits. Then review the people, papers and account arrangements in your own plan. This guide points you to official information and covers preparing your own arrangements.
- 6 steps
- Official sources
- Checked October 15, 2026
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Check Social Security was told
Ask the funeral home whether it reported the death. If it did not, use Social Security's instructions and contact the agency directly. Do not enter identity details into this guide.
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Ask about survivor benefits
Read Social Security's survivor benefit guidance. Contact the agency about your eligibility and how to apply. A general guide cannot determine which benefits you can receive.
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Choose a new first contact
Review whom you would want called if you became ill. Ask that person and a backup whether they are willing to take the role. Tell them where your own contact list is kept.
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Review your own papers
Ask a lawyer in your state to review your will, power of attorney and health care directive after the change in your family. Do not cross out or replace signed instructions based on this guide.
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Check your account arrangements
Ask each institution how to review your own beneficiaries and emergency contacts. Use the institution's official contact details. Keep a record of the questions you asked and where the confirmation is stored.
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Update your permissions
Check who can discuss your Medicare information and whom Social Security should consider if you later need a payee. Choose what to work on when you are ready.
Good to know
Does the funeral home report the death?
Social Security says funeral homes generally report it. Ask the funeral home to confirm. If it did not report the death, contact Social Security directly.
Should I change my will myself?
Ask a lawyer in your state about reviewing your documents. Do not alter a signed document based on this guide.
Helping your mom or dad after a loss?
Ask which tasks they want help with. They choose who becomes their contact and what they want to share. Help them write down questions for the relevant offices.
What we checked
| Fact | Source | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Funeral homes generally report a death to Social Security. | Social Security Administration | Oct 15, 2026 |
| If a funeral home does not report a death, Social Security says to call the agency. | Social Security Administration | Oct 15, 2026 |
| An eligible spouse may qualify for Social Security survivor benefits. | Social Security Administration | Oct 15, 2026 |
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Plan Before You Die isn't connected with Medicare or the U.S. government. Something wrong here? Tell us.