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The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a range of benefits beyond retirement and disability, including survivor benefits. These payments are available to family members of deceased workers and are a critical source of financial support for widows, widowers, children, and sometimes even parents.
To qualify for survivor benefits, individuals don’t need to have work credits themselves. The benefit is based on the deceased worker’s earnings record.
Widows, widowers, minor children, and in some cases dependent parents, may all qualify for monthly payments, depending on their relationship to the deceased and other eligibility criteria.
Average Survivor Benefit Payments in July 2025
The SSA has confirmed the average monthly survivor benefit amount in July 2025 is $1,566.66. However, the exact payment varies depending on the recipient’s relationship to the deceased and their circumstances.
| Recipient Type | Average Monthly Payment (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| All Survivors | $1,566.66 |
| Children of Deceased Workers | $1,139.18 |
| Widowed Mothers and Fathers | $1,314.10 |
| Nondisabled Widow(er)s | $1,863.71 |
| Disabled Widow(er)s | $953.73 |
| Dependent Parents | $1,697.90 |
These amounts reflect the most current data and serve as a lifeline for millions of families dealing with loss.
July 2025 Survivor Benefit Payment Schedule
The SSA determines payment dates based on the beneficiary’s date of birth and whether they started receiving benefits after April 30, 1997.
There are two critical payout dates for survivors this July:
- July 16, 2025 – For those born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
- July 23, 2025 – For those born between the 21st and 31st.
Survivors who started collecting before May 1997 typically receive payments on the 3rd of the month, but those after this date follow the Wednesday schedule based on their birthdays.
Note: Paper checks are being phased out. Starting September 30, 2025, all SSA payments will be electronic, either via direct deposit or Direct Express debit cards.
Lump Sum Death Benefit
Surviving spouses or children may also be eligible for a one-time lump sum death benefit of $255. This is separate from the monthly survivor benefits and must be claimed within two years of the worker’s death.
How to Receive Payments
Survivor payments are delivered via two methods:
- Direct Deposit (preferred and fastest method)
- Paper Check (ending soon)
Payments may take up to three mailing days to reach recipients, depending on the bank’s processing times. If payment hasn’t arrived after three days, it’s advised to contact your bank first before calling the SSA.
Eligibility Criteria for Survivor Benefits
To qualify for SSA survivor benefits, you must be one of the following:
- Widow or widower aged 60+ (or 50+ if disabled)
- Surviving spouse caring for a child under age 16
- Unmarried child under 18 (or 19 if still in high school)
- Disabled child of any age (if the disability began before age 22)
- Dependent parents aged 62+
These individuals must have been financially dependent on the deceased worker and must apply for the benefit through the SSA.
The $1,566 monthly survivor payment offers critical support to families affected by the loss of a loved one. With two key payment dates in July 2025 – July 16 and July 23 – it’s vital for eligible recipients to check their birthdate and confirm their payment method to avoid delays.
Additionally, being aware of the transition to electronic payments can help ensure smooth access to these essential benefits.
Whether you are a widow, widower, child, or dependent parent, survivor benefits are designed to provide financial relief when you need it most.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,566 survivor benefit?
Widows, widowers, children, and some dependent parents of a deceased worker may qualify based on relationship and dependency.
When will survivor benefits be paid in July 2025?
Eligible survivors will receive payments on July 16 or July 23, depending on their date of birth.
Will paper checks still be sent after September 2025?
No. As of September 30, 2025, all SSA payments will be electronic only via direct deposit or Direct Express.