QUESTION
Can we claim un-cashed Social Security Checks for a deceased person?
Asked on Nov 20th, 2013 on Estate Planning - California
More details to this question:
My uncle recently passed away and we have come across old un-cashed Social Security checks from several years back. How many years can we go back to claim funds for those un-cashed checks?
7 ANSWERS
Edwin K. Niles
Ask SSA for replacement checks. You'll have to prove that you are the next of kin, by small estate declaration.
Answered on Dec 04th, 2013 at 10:17 PM
3 Awards
The estate can try to address, but the checks are stale and will need to be reissued. Speak with your probate attorney about next steps.
Answered on Nov 25th, 2013 at 12:26 PM
The checks should be turned over to the executor of your uncle's estate. It will be that person's responsibility to contact the SSA to see if the checks are still good and can be cashed.
Answered on Nov 21st, 2013 at 2:22 PM
Trusts Attorney serving Sacramento, CA
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Law Office of Victor Waid
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Probably not, as the intended person is no longer available to sign to deposit or cash the check.
Answered on Nov 21st, 2013 at 2:21 PM
2 Awards
Contact the social security office. You will need a death certificate and a small estate affidavit which you can find on the internet.
Answered on Nov 21st, 2013 at 2:21 PM
Commercial Contracts Attorney serving Boise, ID
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Peters Law, PLLC
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First contact the SSA and see if they can find out if the checks were replaced. It is possible that your uncle filed a lost check claim (see Reds 1) and got the money anyway. If he did not and the money is owing, again talk with SSA about how far back you can go.
Answered on Nov 21st, 2013 at 2:00 PM
Call up Social Security and ask them under what regulation they base their decision.
Answered on Nov 20th, 2013 at 10:21 PM