Which form is used by the claimant for the Lump Sum Death Benefit?

• A. SSA 8
• B. SSA 721
• C. SSA 2
• D. SSA 5

Answer: (A)

When applying for the Lump Sum Death Benefit, you use a form that is specifically designed for that one-time payment. This is Form SSA-8, the Application for Lump Sum Death Payment. The SSA assigns distinct forms to different benefits, so SSA-8 is the exact document needed to initiate the lump-sum death payment to a surviving spouse or eligible dependent. Using this form ensures the SSA collects the right information to determine eligibility and process the payment. Other SSA forms exist for different benefits and purposes, so they wouldn’t be appropriate for this particular claim. File promptly, within the SSA's time frame after death, to ensure the payment can be issued.