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Form SSA-1724: Claim for Amounts Due

Complete guide to filing Form SSA-1724 to claim Social Security benefits due to a deceased beneficiary. Learn who can file, what documents you need, and step-by-step instructions for submitting your claim.

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What is Form SSA-1724?

Form SSA-1724 (Claim for Amounts Due in the Case of a Deceased Beneficiary) is an official Social Security Administration form used to claim benefits that were owed to a person who has died. This form allows eligible survivors or legal representatives to claim unpaid Social Security benefits on behalf of the deceased.

The form is used to claim various types of amounts due, including:

  • Unpaid monthly Social Security benefits
  • Underpayments that occurred before death
  • The one-time lump-sum death payment of $255
  • Any retroactive benefits that were approved but not paid

Important Timing

File Form SSA-1724 as soon as possible after the beneficiary's death. Claims for unpaid benefits must generally be filed within two years of the date the payment was due to avoid forfeiture.

Who Can File Form SSA-1724?

Eligibility to file depends on your relationship to the deceased beneficiary. Priority is given in the following order:

Priority 1

Surviving Spouse

The widow or widower of the deceased beneficiary, including common-law spouses in states where recognized.

Priority 2

Children

Natural or legally adopted children of the deceased beneficiary, including minor and adult children.

Priority 3

Parents

The father or mother of the deceased beneficiary if they were dependent on the deceased for support.

Priority 4

Legal Representative

Court-appointed executor, administrator, or legal representative of the deceased's estate.

Priority Order

If multiple people are eligible, Social Security will pay the claim to the person with the highest priority who files a valid claim. Only one payment will be made.

Required Documents

Gather these documents before completing Form SSA-1724 to ensure a smooth filing process.

Death Certificate

Required

Certified copy of the death certificate from the state or local vital records office.

Proof of Relationship

Required

Marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption papers, or other documents proving your relationship to the deceased.

Social Security Numbers

Required

Social Security numbers for both the deceased beneficiary and the person filing the claim.

Banking Information

Bank account number and routing number for direct deposit of any amounts due (if applicable).

Proof of Payment

Documentation of funeral expenses or other payments made on behalf of the deceased (if claiming reimbursement).

Letters of Administration

Court documents appointing you as executor or administrator (if filing as legal representative).

Understanding the Form Sections

Form SSA-1724 is divided into four main parts. Here's what information you'll need to provide in each section.

Part I

Information About the Deceased

  • Full name of deceased beneficiary
  • Social Security Number
  • Date of birth
  • Date of death
  • Last known address
Part II

Information About the Claimant

  • Your full name
  • Your Social Security Number
  • Your relationship to deceased
  • Your current address
  • Your phone number
Part III

Amount Being Claimed

  • Type of benefit owed
  • Estimated amount due
  • Payment period
  • Reason for claim
Part IV

Payment Information

  • Preferred payment method
  • Bank account information (for direct deposit)
  • Mailing address for check

How to Submit Form SSA-1724

You have two options for submitting your completed Form SSA-1724 and supporting documents.

1. In Person (Recommended)

Visit your local Social Security office to submit the form and documents in person. This allows you to get immediate confirmation of receipt and ask any questions. Schedule an appointment in advance to reduce wait times.

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2. By Mail

Mail the completed form and all supporting documents to your local Social Security office. Make copies of everything for your records before mailing. Send via certified mail with return receipt requested for proof of delivery.

Important: Never mail original documents unless specifically requested. Send certified copies only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Form SSA-1724 and claiming benefits for a deceased beneficiary.

What is Form SSA-1724 used for?

Form SSA-1724 (Claim for Amounts Due in the Case of a Deceased Beneficiary) is used to claim Social Security benefits that were owed to a person who has died. This includes unpaid monthly benefits, underpayments, or the one-time death payment of $255. The form allows eligible survivors or legal representatives to claim these amounts on behalf of the deceased.

Who is eligible to file Form SSA-1724?

Eligible filers include the surviving spouse, children, parents (if dependent on the deceased), or the legal representative of the estate. Priority is given to the surviving spouse who was living with the deceased at the time of death. If there is no surviving spouse, children who were eligible for benefits can file. The legal representative can file if there are no eligible family members.

How long do I have to file Form SSA-1724?

You should file Form SSA-1724 as soon as possible after the beneficiary's death. While there's no strict deadline, claims for unpaid benefits must generally be filed within two years of the date the payment was due. However, it's best to file promptly to avoid any complications or delays in receiving the amounts due.

What documents do I need to submit with Form SSA-1724?

You'll need to submit a certified copy of the death certificate, proof of your relationship to the deceased (such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate), Social Security numbers for both you and the deceased, and if you're filing as a legal representative, letters of administration or testamentary from the court. Additional documents may be required depending on your specific situation.

How do I submit Form SSA-1724?

You can submit Form SSA-1724 by mailing it to your local Social Security office along with all required supporting documents, or by taking it in person to your local Social Security office. It's recommended to make copies of all documents before submitting. You can also start the process by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment.

How long does it take to process Form SSA-1724?

Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the claim and whether all required documentation is provided. Generally, you can expect a decision within 30-60 days. If additional information is needed, the process may take longer. You'll receive a written notice of the decision, and if approved, payment will be issued according to your selected payment method.

Can I claim the $255 death payment using Form SSA-1724?

Yes, Form SSA-1724 can be used to claim the one-time lump-sum death payment of $255. This payment is available to the surviving spouse who was living with the deceased, or if there is no surviving spouse, to a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased's record. This is separate from any unpaid monthly benefits that may be due.

What happens if multiple people are eligible to file?

When multiple people are eligible, Social Security follows a priority order: first to the surviving spouse who was living with the deceased, then to the surviving spouse not living with the deceased, then to children, then to parents, and finally to the legal representative of the estate. Only one claim will be paid, and it will go to the person with the highest priority who files a valid claim.

Need Help with Form SSA-1724?

Contact Social Security for assistance with filing your claim or to schedule an appointment at your local office.

Download FormCall SSA: 1-800-772-1213

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