Social Security needs to know so payments stop cleanly and survivor benefits can begin. It sounds official, but it is one phone call, and I've already prepared everything you need to say.
“Hello, I'm calling to report a death. My mother, Margaret Ellison, passed away on April 1st. Her Social Security number is on file with you. I'm her daughter and the executor of her estate. Could you tell me what happens next with her benefits?”
You can hand this call to a family member, or to a professional from the Marketplace. No explanations needed.
Hand this off