Someone died
What to do first
- Give the funeral home the person's Social Security number. They usually tell Social Security about the death.
- Order several copies of the death certificate. Banks and agencies will ask for one.
- Call Social Security to ask about survivor benefits.
- If the person served in the military, ask VA about burial benefits.
- If you lost health coverage, pick a new plan soon.
Talk it through
Tell us more about what happened. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Dates that matter
These windows are set by federal rules. Your state may have its own dates too, so ask the agency.
2 years
Social Security death payment
A surviving spouse may get a one-time payment of $255. If there is no spouse, a child may get it. Apply within 2 years of the death.
Source: SSA.gov60 days
Health coverage
If the death means you lose your health plan, you can sign up for a Marketplace plan. You have 60 days.
Source: HealthCare.gov
Help from Virginia
Virginia programs that fit what happened. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Virginia Department of Health, Office of Vital Records
Vital Records
The Office of Vital Records issues certified copies of Virginia birth, death, marriage, and divorce records.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
Virginia Department of Social Services
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
SNAP helps eligible households pay for groceries.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services
Medical Assistance
Virginia Medicaid covers health care for eligible residents.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Virginia State Corporation Commission
Virginia's Insurance Marketplace
Virginia's Insurance Marketplace lets residents compare and enroll in private health plans and check eligibility for financial help.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhoneIn person
Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
Behavioral Health Services
DBHDS oversees community services for mental health and substance use needs through local providers.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services
Aging Services
Virginia's Area Agencies on Aging connect older adults and caregivers with local services and support.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhoneIn person
Virginia Department of Social Services
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
TANF provides monthly cash assistance to eligible families with children.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal help
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
SSA.gov
Survivor benefits from Social Security
A widow or widower, an ex-spouse, children, and parents who depended on the person may get monthly benefits. Call Social Security to apply.
VA.gov
Burial benefits for veterans
VA can help pay for a veteran's burial and funeral, and offers burial in a VA national cemetery.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Help near you
Find county and state offices near you, or call 211 to talk to someone about help in your area.
Talk to a person
- 211 Virginia
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988