After I notified Social Security of my husbands death and had an appointment to apply for his health benefit they sent $255 to my bank account on his social security number and $34 on mine SS# to my bank. The $34 is not the amount I draw every month. I got a letter stating the one time $255 but, said nothing about the $34. I believe they are completely cutting my SS off foe some strange reason. During my appointment with them they said nothing about cutting me off if I claimed the one time payment but, I believe they have.

My husband died in june and he was receiving Social Security he died he was 69 and who is suspose to get the 255.00 lump sum payment

My parents died a number of years ago. I never filed a burial benefits. Is there a time limit to file ?

Hi,

I'm sorry for your loss.

Social Security doesn't really pay a burial benefit, but there is a one-time death benefit of $255 that can be paid to certain survivors. However, the death benefit can only be paid if an application is filed within 2 years of the deceased person's death (https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.15/handbook-1517.html).

Assuming that the file & suspend strategy for singles will still be available (I was 64 on 1/1/16) when I reach FRA, if I suspend at 66 and "unsuspend" at 69 1/2, the lump sum payout would be around $90K and, thanks to you and your co-authors, I do understand that my monthly benefit reverts to the FRA amount. But my question is: What is the best strategy to handle that $90K sum? I'd hate to see it fully taxable in one year. I plan to still be working, so what would you recommend for investing it? Don't want to play the market. Thanks, Cathy