Will a spouse have to return a SS check after a spouse dies?

Generally, if a Social Security check is issued to a deceased spouse for the month of their death or earlier, it must be returned. However, if the surviving spouse was eligible for benefits based on the deceased’s earnings record, they may be entitled to receive their own benefits or Survivor benefits. It's important for the surviving spouse to notify the Social Security Administration of the death promptly to avoid issues with overpayments.