Short answer: Start with certified death certificates. Then file life insurance and employer benefit claims, contact Social Security about survivor benefits and the $255 lump-sum payment, and decide on continued health coverage through COBRA or the Marketplace within the deadlines. Keep home and auto policies in force, then update named insureds, drivers and beneficiaries.
First steps
- [ ] Order several certified copies of the death certificate. Insurers, banks and agencies usually want one each.
- [ ] Gather policies: life, employer group life, accidental death, annuities, home, auto and health.
Life insurance and employer benefits
- [ ] File each claim with the insurer or the employer's HR department. Beneficiaries usually submit a claim form and a death certificate.
- [ ] Look for policies you didn't know about in bank statements, old mail and employer records. Many states offer a free life insurance policy locator through the insurance department or the NAIC.
- [ ] Ask about accidental death and credit life coverage on loans or credit cards.
Social Security
- [ ] The Social Security Administration usually learns of the death from the funeral home, but call 1-800-772-1213 to apply for benefits.
- [ ] A surviving spouse or eligible child may get a one-time $255 lump-sum death payment. Apply within two years (SSA).
- [ ] Ask about monthly survivor benefits for you or your children.
Health coverage
- [ ] If you were covered through your spouse's job, you can usually elect COBRA within at least 60 days. After a death, COBRA generally lasts up to 36 months (U.S. Department of Labor).
- [ ] Compare a Marketplace plan. Losing coverage gives you a 60-day special enrollment period.
Home and auto
- [ ] Keep premiums paid, and tell insurers about the death so the named insured is updated.
- [ ] Remove your spouse as a driver once the car is sold or retitled, and update the title and registration.
Your own beneficiaries
- [ ] Update beneficiaries on your life insurance, retirement accounts and annuities.
- [ ] Review whether your own life insurance still fits your family's needs.
Bottom line
Take it one deadline at a time. COBRA and Marketplace windows are the shortest, so handle those first.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. Vea life insurance.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to elect COBRA after a spouse dies?
At least 60 days, and coverage after a death generally lasts up to 36 months.
What is the Social Security lump-sum death payment?
A one-time $255 payment to a qualifying surviving spouse or child; apply within two years.
Can I get a Marketplace plan after losing my spouse's coverage?
Yes. Losing coverage opens a 60-day special enrollment period.
Should I keep the home and auto policies paid?
Yes. Keep them in force and tell the insurers so the named insured can be updated.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.