Social Security Death Index Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the Social Security Death Index (SSDI)? A1: The Social Security Death Index (SSDI) is a database that contains records of individuals who have died and were issued Social Security numbers in the United States.

Q2: How can I access the Social Security Death Index? A2: You can access the Social Security Death Index through various online platforms, such as genealogy websites, government websites, or commercial data providers. Some sources may require a subscription or fee to access the information.

Q3: What information is included in the Social Security Death Index? A3: The Social Security Death Index typically includes the deceased person’s name, Social Security number, date of birth, date of death, and last known residence.

Q4: Can I search the Social Security Death Index for free? A4: While some online platforms charge a fee to access the Social Security Death Index, there are also free resources available. The Social Security Administration provides a limited version of the Death Master File, which is accessible through their website or by submitting a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.

Q5: How can the Social Security Death Index be used for genealogical research? A5: The Social Security Death Index is a valuable resource for genealogical research. It can help trace family connections, confirm vital dates, and provide insights into the lives of deceased individuals.

Q6: Are all deceased individuals included in the Social Security Death Index? A6: The Social Security Death Index includes most individuals who were issued Social Security numbers and have died since the inception of the Social Security system in the 1930s. However, it may not include everyone, particularly those who never applied for a Social Security number or individuals whose records are withheld for privacy reasons.

Q7: Is the Social Security Death Index updated regularly? A7: Yes, the Social Security Death Index is regularly updated by the Social Security Administration to include new records of deceased individuals. However, there might be a delay between the date of death and when the information becomes available in the index.

Q8: Can I request a copy of a deceased person’s Social Security application from the Social Security Death Index? A8: No, it is not possible to request a copy of a deceased person’s Social Security application directly from the Social Security Death Index. However, you can request the deceased individual’s Social Security Application Form (SS-5) from the Social Security Administration through their Genealogy Records service.

Q9: How can I correct errors in the Social Security Death Index? A9: If you discover errors in the Social Security Death Index, you can contact the Social Security Administration to request corrections. They may require documentation to support the correction, such as a death certificate or other relevant records.

Q10: Are there any privacy concerns related to the information in the Social Security Death Index? A10: Privacy concerns surrounding the Social Security Death Index primarily revolve around the potential misuse of personal information. While the index contains publicly available data, some individuals may have concerns about identity theft or unauthorized use of their deceased loved ones’ information. Efforts have been made to limit access to certain sensitive details, such as the Social Security number, in newer versions of the index.

Q11: Can I use the Social Security Death Index to verify someone’s death? A11: Yes, the Social Security Death Index can be used to verify someone’s death. By searching for an individual’s name and associated information, such as their Social Security number, date of birth, or last known residence, you can confirm if they are listed in the index as deceased.

Q12: Is the Social Security Death Index available for international individuals? A12: The Social Security Death Index primarily includes individuals who were issued Social Security numbers within the United States. However, it may also include some non-U.S. citizens who received Social Security numbers during their time in the United States. The availability of information for international individuals may vary.

Q13: Are there any restrictions on using the Social Security Death Index for commercial purposes? A13: Yes, there are certain restrictions on using the Social Security Death Index for commercial purposes. The Social Security Administration imposes limitations on the distribution of the Death Master File, which is a more comprehensive version of the index. Commercial entities seeking access to the full Death Master File must meet specific criteria and adhere to regulations set by the Commerce, Justice, and Labor (CJL) Committee.

Q14: Can I find cause of death information in the Social Security Death Index? A14: No, the Social Security Death Index does not include cause of death information. It primarily focuses on basic details such as names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and dates of death. Cause of death information is typically found on death certificates, which can be obtained from vital records offices or relevant authorities.

Q15: How accurate is the Social Security Death Index? A15: While the Social Security Death Index strives to maintain accuracy, occasional errors or omissions may occur. Mistakes can arise from various factors, such as data entry errors, delays in updating records, or missing information. It’s always recommended to cross-reference information from other sources for verification when possible.

Q16: Can I use the Social Security Death Index to locate living individuals? A16: No, the primary purpose of the Social Security Death Index is to document deceased individuals. It is not intended for locating or identifying living individuals. Using the index to search for living individuals is not appropriate and may infringe upon privacy rights.

Q17: Are there alternative sources of death records besides the Social Security Death Index? A17: Yes, there are alternative sources of death records that can be used in conjunction with or as alternatives to the Social Security Death Index. These include vital records offices, obituaries, cemetery records, and online memorial websites. Each source may provide additional information and details about a person’s death.

Q18: Can I access the Social Security Death Index offline or through physical records? A18: The Social Security Death Index is primarily available online through digital databases. However, historical versions of the index may be available in physical formats, such as microfilm or printed publications, in specific libraries, archives, or genealogical societies.

Q19: Can I request redacted versions of the Social Security Death Index? A19: Yes, redacted versions of the Social Security Death Index are available to the general public. These versions exclude sensitive information, such as the Social Security number, to protect against potential misuse. The redacted index typically includes the individual’s name, date of birth, date of death, and last known residence.

Q20: Are there any legal restrictions on using the Social Security Death Index for research purposes? A20: Generally, there are no legal restrictions on using the Social Security Death Index for research purposes. However, it’s important to comply with applicable privacy laws and regulations. Researchers should be mindful of using the information responsibly, respecting privacy rights, and obtaining proper consent when required.