When using the Social Security Death Index and viewing the field “last residence” try to remember that this is the address of record. It does not mean that this is the place of death. A perfect example is an elderly couple who had a summer home in the Northeast and a winter home in the south. The husband had passed on while residing in Florida but in the search results of the Social Security Death Index last residence is listed as a northern state. Many people have two official addresses especially if summer and winter home is involved.

Another thought to keep in mind when using the Social Security Death Index is that the zip codes shown are those that existed at the time of the death being reported. They may not be correct or the same as today.
When a person applies for a Social Security Number they fill out a form that is referred to as the SS-5. If the person is deceased, you can request a copy of the SS-5 form. The individual completing the SS-5 form is required to provide complete birth information. This means more than just the country of birth as you may find in census and death records.

In addition, the SS-5 form will provide you with the individuals mothers maiden name which can be critical in your research.
You can request a copy of the original application for a Social Seurity card by searching the Social Security Death Index at www.rootsweb.com. The website will generate a printer ready letter addressed to the Social Security Administration for you. You will need to include a check or money order for these records and I believe the fee is currently $27 if you have the Social Security number and $29 with out a Social Security number. It may take several months to receive the information so you do have to be patient.

The Social Security Death Index is created by the Social Security Administration. If you find an error such as incorrect dates or data you should contact the local Social Security office. Be prepared though because you will need to provide acceptable proof to have the error corrected.

Sources: Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov and www.rootsweb.com