Social Security Survivors Benefit question (payments, benefits, wife, kids)

[Johnson15]

I am trying to find an answer to a question. My wife passed away on September 9th and my children are eligible for survivor benefits. I have filled out all the paperwork and the caseworker told me the monthly amount the kids will receive and that they will get back pay. My question is will they receive benefits for September or would they start them in October ?? Based on her birthday they will receive the benefits on the 4th Wednesday of the month

Thank you

[arwenmark]

I believe that since she did not live the full month of September that the children's checks would start in October but not 100% certain, did you call SS and ask them?

[reed303]

When my wife passed at age 60 in Sept 2004, the first payment was in October 2004.

The same happens with regular retirement benefits, you apply effective in month 1, and payment starts in month 2.
Basically SS pays "in arrears", which is also why when a person receiving benefits passes, the last payment has to be returned. SS does not make partial payments. BTDT for both parents.

[Johnson15]

Originally Posted by reed303

When my wife passed at age 60 in Sept 2004, the first payment was in October 2004.

The same happens with regular retirement benefits, you apply effective in month 1, and payment starts in month 2.
Basically SS pays "in arrears", which is also why when a person receiving benefits passes, the last payment has to be returned. SS does not make partial payments. BTDT for both parents.

Thanks for the information. The "in arrears" part makes sense now I applied in September just was confused when the agent told me they would get September's payment so wasn't sure if that meant a payment in September or getting September's payment in October. Thanks for clarification