In a September 2023 NJMoneyHelp article, a reader asked whether they could keep their older brother’s SSI disability payment after he died in a motorcycle accident. As the brother’s next of kin, the reader wanted to know whether they were entitled to receive that month’s check.

In his response, Howard Hook, CFP®, CPA, CAP®. explained that SSI disability benefits end when the recipient dies. SSI benefits are paid in advance, intended to cover the month in which they are received. Therefore, a beneficiary must be alive for the entire month to be entitled to that payment. He noted that any benefit received in the month of death (and subsequent months) must be returned to the Social Security Administration.

Hook further explained that if the deceased individual was married at the time of death, the surviving spouse may be entitled to a one-time death benefit of $255. He also noted that while disability benefits end upon death, certain family members may qualify for survivor benefits.

However, Hook clarified that siblings are not considered an eligible class of family members for survivor benefits.

To read Howard’s full response, visit the original article on NJMoneyHelp: My Brother Died. Can I Keep His SSI From That Month?

Putting It Into Perspective

Questions about government benefits often arise after the loss of a loved one, especially when family members are trying to settle financial affairs. Howard frequently helps clients and their families navigate financial issues that can occur following a death, including understanding benefit eligibility and other planning considerations.

Learn more about Howard Hook by visiting his advisor profile.

To learn more about Social Security, survivor benefits, and other benefit planning strategies, explore our Social Security Planning Articles.