Canceling Medicare After Death: A Guide for Family

In the event of death, a person's Medicare coverage should be canceled. Although family members may be eligible for a one-time payment when a Social Security recipient dies, there are no additional benefits through Medicare. A spouse, relative, friend or volunteer can report the death to Medicare. If you're a spouse or family member with questions regarding the deceased party's claims or coverage, you're required to submit a written request to Medicare.

Step 1

Call Medicare. You can reach Medicare by calling 800-MEDICARE to reach a customer service representative.

Step 2

Provide the deceased person's full name, date of birth, Medicare number and one piece of additional personal information, such as his Social Security number, phone number or address. The customer service representative uses the information you give to access the deceased person's records to determine if a proof of death is on file.

Step 3

Call the Social Security Administration if a proof of death isn't on file. You need to inform Social Security of the death and that the person received Medicare. Call 800-772-1213 to speak to a Social Security representative.

Step 4

Request confirmation. Ask the Medicare or Social Security representative for confirmation that you're canceling Medicare benefits on behalf on the deceased individual.