Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act
Rep. Amo Introduces Bill to Raise Social Security Death Benefit from $255 to $2,900
This bill was recently introduced and is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on Ways and Means. It is in the early stages of the lawmaking process and is not yet scheduled for a vote. There are no companion bills currently linked to this proposal.
Legislative Progress
While the bill addresses a long-standing issue, it currently lacks bipartisan support and faces a difficult path in a divided Congress.
Key Points
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
Life & Work
Surviving spouses who are homeowners and lose a partner may benefit from the increased death payment to help cover immediate expenses during a financially vulnerable time. However, the $2,900 payment remains modest relative to overall household costs.
Programs
Milestones
Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
2 articles
Bill back on the table to increase Social Security Lump-Sum Death Benefit
This industry report discusses the re-introduction of the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act in December 2025. It notes that while the $2,900 benefit would aid grieving families, it might also increase competition for low-cost direct cremation services.
New Bill Increases Social Security Death Benefit
Legislation introduced by Sen. Peter Welch and co-sponsored by Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders would increase the Social Security lump-sum death benefit to $2,900. The bill, S. 5178, would index the benefit for inflation annually to cover modern burial costs.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
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