What is the name of your state? Washington
Hello,
First, some background...
I am 27 years old. When I was 10 years old, my father disappeared out my life, and I have not heard from him since. The Social Security Death Index reports, based on his SSN, that he died in 1988. I have contacted the State in which he apparently died and ordered a death certificate. Several weeks later I received a letter back stating that the Records Department was unable to find a death certificate for him. That alone seems pretty strange to me, but that's the current situation with regards to his death.
Here's my question:
Now, IF I can prove his death, would, at 27 years of age, I be eligible to receive back payments of his Social Security Death benefits since I am his son? Is there a time limit (i.e. statute of limitations) on how much time a beneficiary can claim benefits? I believe my mother once tried to get survivor benefits for me when I was younger but the SSA initially denied them for dubious reasons, and we never appealed. I still feel as though I was cheated out of these death benefits and would like to pursue them if it is still possible.
Thanks much for your help. This has been a lifelong mystery for me and I'd really like to get some answers! Please let me know if you have any follow-up questions.
Hello,
First, some background...
I am 27 years old. When I was 10 years old, my father disappeared out my life, and I have not heard from him since. The Social Security Death Index reports, based on his SSN, that he died in 1988. I have contacted the State in which he apparently died and ordered a death certificate. Several weeks later I received a letter back stating that the Records Department was unable to find a death certificate for him. That alone seems pretty strange to me, but that's the current situation with regards to his death.
Here's my question:
Now, IF I can prove his death, would, at 27 years of age, I be eligible to receive back payments of his Social Security Death benefits since I am his son? Is there a time limit (i.e. statute of limitations) on how much time a beneficiary can claim benefits? I believe my mother once tried to get survivor benefits for me when I was younger but the SSA initially denied them for dubious reasons, and we never appealed. I still feel as though I was cheated out of these death benefits and would like to pursue them if it is still possible.
Thanks much for your help. This has been a lifelong mystery for me and I'd really like to get some answers! Please let me know if you have any follow-up questions.