Hi Larry,

My grandfather passed away on August 31st. He received his benefit on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. My grandmother receives spousal benefits. Can social security rescind his August benefits (or a portion of them) because he didn't make it until the third Wednesday of September?

Thanks for your help.

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

Yes, if your grandfather died on August 31, he would not be due any payment at all for August. So, his payment that normally would arrive in September will need to be returned if it does get paid. The payment he received in August was for July, and does not need to be returned.

On the other hand, though, it sounds like your grandmother should be eligible for widow's benefits effective with August, which will be paid at a significantly higher rate than her spousal benefits. If she's already been receiving spousal benefits, Social Security should automatically convert her to the higher survivor rate upon receiving notice of your grandfather's death.

Best, Jerry