Benefits, including insurance and social security

Benefits

You may be eligible for benefits through insurance policies, Social Security, the Veterans' Administration or an employer.  

Insurance

Insurance benefits can often be processed quickly and simply with the proceeds paid directly to the beneficiary. For information on filing claims, check with the policy insurance agent. Look for the following types of insurance policies:

• Life insurance
• Mortgage insurance
• Employer insurance
• Credit card insurance
• Accident or auto insurance if applicable

Social Security

For information about Social Security benefits, call 1-800-772-1213. If your loved one was receiving Social Security benefits, do not cash any checks received after death.

Veterans' benefits

For information about Veterans' benefits including burial benefits, call 1-800-827-1000.

Employee benefits

If your loved one was employed at the time of death, contact the employer for information on benefits. If your loved one was retired and receiving a pension, you may also be eligible for benefits. Your lawyer or financial advisor can help you determine eligibility for benefits.

Allina Grief Resources
651-628-1752

First published: 05/28/2000
Last updated: 09/15/2004

Reviewed by: Russell N. Myers, M.Div, BCC, Chaplain, Allina Hospitals & Clinics; Linda Norlander, RN, MS, project manager, Allina End of Life Project;

Judy Young, M.Ed, Bereavement Services, Allina Hospice and Palliative Care