Death Benefit

"Death Benefit" is the 20th episode of the third season of the American television drama series Person of Interest. It is the 65th overall episode of the series and is written by co-producer Erik Mountain and Lucas O'Connor and directed by Richard J. Lewis. It aired on CBS in the United States and on CTV in Canada on April 15, 2014.

The series revolves around a computer program for the federal government known as "The Machine" that is capable of collating all sources of information to predict terrorist acts and to identify people planning them. A team, consisting of John Reese, Harold Finch and Sameen Shaw follow "irrelevant" crimes: lesser level of priority for the government. In the episode, the team continues working with the Machine despite the leak to the media. They must protect a Congressman but their own actions become the problem when they discover the reason behind their assignment. The title refers to "Death benefit", a payment given to anyone with a life insurance policy when the insured person dies. Despite being credited, Kevin Chapman does not appear.

According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 10.74 million household viewers and gained a 1.8/5 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received near critical acclaim, with major highlights including Michael Emerson's performance, writing, moral dilemma and ending.