The Social Security Death Index is an index of Social Security Death records. Generally this includes names of deceased Social Security recipients whose relatives applied for Social Security Death Benefits after their passing. Also included in the millions of records are approximately 400,000 railroad retirement records from the early 1900s to 1950s. You can find the following information in the Social Security Death Index: the individual's name and Soundex code, birth date, death date, Social Security number and state where it was issued. Seventy-seven percent of the records contain the Zip Code of the individual's last known residence and the primary location associated with it. Fifteen percent of the records contain the Zip Code of the address where the death benefit payment was sent and the primary location associated with it.

Where can I find the Social Security Death Index?

You can find out right now if your ancestors are listed in the Social Security Death Index without even leaving your computer! This free search can help you by telling you if your ancestor is actually listed in the Social Security Death Index. Once you find a listing for your ancestor, you can instantly create a letter requesting a copy of their application for a Social Security card (Form SS5) by clicking "Write It"

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