Does the social security check you received in the month of your death have to be returned?

No - the SS payment is not allowed to be used for any purpose after the person passes away. Social Security pays a month behind. For example, if someone lives the entire month of October, they will receive their payment Nov. 1st. The thing is - they must live the ENTIRE month - passing away, even on the 29th will cause SS to not pay - if they are notified in time - or take back the money if it has already been paid. There is a SS death benefit that is paid to some surviving spouses but it's a nominal amount and is not automatic- it must be applied for.