and if the survivor is not the spouse can the kids get a lump payout or will it be different?
In that case a lump - sum can be paid to the worker's child or children if ,during the month the worker died the child was already receiving benefits on the worker's record or became eligible for benefits upon the worker's death .
okay and I read about the deceased not having enough credits or something and paid benefits, so can you tell me more?
Benefits can still be paid to the worker 's children and the surviving spouse who is caring for the children even if the worker didn't have the required number of credits .They can get benefits if the worker has credit for one and one - half years of work in the three years just before their death .Each person s situation is different and you need to talk to a Social Security claims representative about your choices