After a death, some government agencies are notified automatically, while others require a family member or representative to take action depending on the benefits involved.
Many people assume that all government agencies are automatically notified when someone dies.
Others worry they must notify every agency immediately or risk penalties or lost benefits.
It’s also common to feel unsure about who is responsible for making these calls.
In the U.S., some notifications happen automatically, while others depend on the deceased person’s benefits and work history.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
Often notified electronically by the funeral home through the state death registration system.
If the funeral home does not report the death, a family member or estate representative must call SSA.
Deaths cannot be reported online; SSA must be contacted by phone or in person.
Medicare
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is usually notified automatically after SSA records the death.
Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medigap plans are not automatically notified and must be contacted directly by the family or representative.
Veterans Affairs (VA)
VA is not automatically notified in most cases.
Survivors or funeral providers contact VA to report the death and request burial or memorial benefits.
Burial allowances or reimbursements require a claim filed by an eligible survivor or the person who paid expenses.
Other federal agencies
For federal employees or retirees, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must be notified by a family member or executor to stop annuity payments and process survivor benefits.
Other agencies may need notification only if the person received specific benefits.
In most cases, the family or estate representative is responsible unless the funeral home explicitly confirms it has reported the death.
If agencies are not notified when required, benefits may continue incorrectly and later need to be repaid.
At the same time, notifying agencies too early or without the right documents can create delays and stress.
Knowing which agencies matter—and who usually handles them—helps families avoid unnecessary calls and focus only on what applies.
You do not need to notify every government agency at once.
Start with Social Security, then follow the benefits the person actually had.
If you’re unsure, ask the funeral home what they’ve already reported before making calls.
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