If you have enough credits at the time of your death, family members may be eligible for benefits. Eligible family members include:
(1) widows and widowers age 62 or older
(2) disabled widow/widower age 50 or older
(3) widow/widower caring for a child under age 16 or a disabled child who receives social security benefits
(5) unmarried children under age 18 - or under age 19 while a full-time student in elementary or secondary school - or age 18 or older who is severely disabled
(6) parents who were dependent upon you for at least half of their support.
A one-time $255 lump sum benefit may also be payable.
Divorced widows/widowers may also be eligible for benefits - after your death - based upon your social security account.