If you received an SSA-1099 with your mother's Social Security number in Box 8, here's what to do:
- Lump-Sum Death Benefit: If it's the $255 lump-sum death benefit, it's nontaxable and doesn't need to be reported.
- Delayed Social Security Benefits: Report it as income on your tax return. It's taxable to you as the beneficiary.
- Separate Reporting: Don't combine this amount with your own Social Security benefits. Report it separately.
- Taxable Income: The amount may be taxable depending on your total income.
- To report the SSA-1099s sign in to TurboTax and while your are logged in, click on to Social Security benefits and answer the questions.
For more details, check the IRS guidelines on Social Security income and Publication 915 and this TurboTax Guide.
