Who may receive a one-time lump sum death benefit?

A one time payment of $255 may be paid in addition to any benefits already being received. Eligibility requirements are:

• A surviving spouse living in the same household as the deceased at the time of death.
• A surviving spouse eligible for benefits for the month of death.
• A child or children eligible for benefits for the month of death.

How do I apply for benefits?

You may apply at any Social Security office, or telephone by dialing the toll free number 1-800-772-1213. An operator will provide further direction.

What veterans benefits are available?

Survivors of anyone who was active, retired, or an honorably discharged veteran, may be eligible for benefits including:

• An American flag
• Burial in a National Cemetery
• A lump-sum payment of $300 may be available to families of veterans that were entitled to VA compensation or a pension at the time of death. Veterans who died while registered as a patient in a VA hospital or other VA facility may also be eligible. If a National Cemetery is not utilized, an amount up to $150 may be reimbursed as an interment allowance. For veterans who die of a service connected disability, the VA may pay an allowance to reimburse funeral costs of up to $1500. Active duty personnel are usually entitled to a greater amount.

A surviving spouse, not remarried, is eligible for burial in a National Cemetery.

Dependant children of the veteran are also eligible.

Benefits must be filed within two years of the veterans death by family, a non-family member who can prove they paid for the services, or the funeral director.

How do I apply for veterans benefits?

For VA assistance telephone 1-800-827-1000 or visit their website at www.va.gov.

What Social Services benefits are available?

Surviving family members may be eligible for a benefit of $1500 or less for funeral and cemetery expenses from the Department of Social Services in the county where the death occurred.

How do I apply for Social Services benefits?

You may call your local county Department of Social Services for more information.

Adams County: 303-287-8831

Arapahoe County: 303-795-4850

City and County of Denver: 720-944-2177

Douglas County: 303-688-4825

Jefferson County: 303-271-4290