31 Jul After death, when does Social Security stop?

Q. My wife was 70 when she died on May 1. She had been collecting regular Social Security checks since she turned 62. Is she due a monthly check for May?
— Widower

A. We’re sorry to hear about the loss of your wife.

We took your question to Social Security, which offered up its fact sheet: How Social Security Can Help You When a Family Member Dies. 

It said: “If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits, you must return the benefit received for the month of death or any later months. For example, if the person dies in July, you must return the benefit paid in August. If received by direct deposit, contact the bank or other financial institution and ask them to return any funds received for the month of death or later. If paid by check, do not cash any checks received for the month the person dies or later. Return the checks to Social Security as soon as possible.”

Keep in mind eligible family members may be able to receive death benefits for the month the beneficiary died, so check with your local office about your specific situation.

Email your questions to .