Will Social Security send me a 1099 for my deceased husband's January payment?

Yes, the SSA will issue an SSA-1099 for any benefits paid in 2024, including that January payment. Since the payment was issued in January 2024, it will appear on a 2024 SSA-1099 (which you'll receive in January 2025). The form will be issued with your husband's name and SSN since the payment was for his benefits. Regarding the payment itself - according to SSA rules, a person must survive the entire month to be entitled to that month's payment. Since your husband passed on the 1st of January, technically that payment may need to be returned to SSA. You should contact them to clarify this specific situation.

Sorry for your loss. I went through this last year when my wife died. Be prepared for a MESS with SSA! They made me return my wife's last payment even though it was already spent on her final expenses. Then they took 4 months to start my survivor benefits. The whole system is BROKEN and they don't care at all about grieving spouses!!

You should apply for survivor benefits right away if you haven't already. You might be eligible for a $255 death benefit payment plus monthly survivor benefits depending on your age and other factors. The 1099 question is important but getting your ongoing benefits set up should be your first priority. I recommend calling SSA directly to sort all this out - both the January payment question and your survivor benefits.

Hmm i think the 1099 depends on if they make you return the payment. my friend had to give back her husbands last check and didnt get a 1099 for it. but if they let you keep it then yes youll get the tax form next january

To clarify about the January payment: SSA follows what's called the "non-payment month of death rule" - this means benefits are not payable for the month of death if the person died anytime during that month. For tax purposes: If you do have to return the payment, you won't receive a 1099 for it (or it would be adjusted). If for some reason you're allowed to keep it, the payment is considered your husband's income for tax purposes, not yours, since it was for his entitlement period.

I just called SSA and you all were right - I do need to return the January payment. They said they'll send me instructions on how to repay it. The representative also helped me apply for the $255 death benefit and start my survivor benefits application. I'm 62 so she said I could start reduced benefits now or wait until later for a higher amount. So much to think about! But at least I know I won't be getting a 1099 for that January payment since I'm returning it. Thank you all for your help during this difficult time.