John Hughie
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that survivor benefits averaging $1,566 per month will be distributed throughout July 2025.
These benefits are a critical financial lifeline for widows, widowers, dependent children, and certain parents of deceased workers who contributed to the Social Security system.
Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, disbursement dates, and the upcoming electronic payment transition.
What Are Social Security Survivor Benefits?
Survivor benefits are monthly payments provided to eligible family members of deceased workers who paid into Social Security. Unlike retirement benefits, survivors don’t need their own work history to qualify. These payments help replace lost income and maintain household stability during a difficult time.
Eligible Recipients Include:
- Widows or widowers (age-dependent or with a disability)
- Children under 18 (or up to 19 if still in school)
- Disabled children of any age if the disability began before age 22
- Dependent parents over age 62 (in some cases)
Survivors may also receive a one-time $255 death benefit.
July 2025 Survivor Benefit Payment Schedule
Social Security survivor benefits are not issued on a fixed date, but rather based on the recipient’s birth date. Payments in July 2025 will be made on the following Wednesdays:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | July 9, 2025 |
| 11th – 20th | July 16, 2025 |
| 21st – 31st | July 23, 2025 |
Tip: It may take up to 3 business days for your payment to appear in your bank account, depending on your financial institution.
Survivor Benefit Amounts for 2025
The SSA has released updated average payments as of May 2025. Amounts vary based on recipient category:
| Recipient Category | Average Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| All survivors | $1,566.66 |
| Children of deceased workers | $1,139.18 |
| Widowed mothers/fathers | $1,314.10 |
| Nondisabled widow(er)s | $1,863.71 |
| Disabled widow(er)s | $953.73 |
| Parents of deceased workers | $1,697.90 |
These payments reflect the SSA’s commitment to supporting families through loss, especially as inflation and living costs continue to rise.
Mandatory Electronic Payment Starting September 30, 2025
Starting September 30, 2025, the SSA will discontinue paper checks for all Social Security payments—including survivor benefits.
What You Must Do:
- Enroll in direct deposit through your bank or credit union
- Or sign up for the Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®
- Update your banking details in your SSA account
- Contact the SSA if you need assistance with the transition
This shift aims to improve payment reliability, prevent mail fraud, and offer faster access to funds.
Why Survivor Benefits Are Vital
These benefits are more than just monthly deposits—they’re often the sole source of income for survivors, helping to cover:
- Rent and utilities
- Groceries and transportation
- Childcare or schooling
- Medical expenses
By offering a steady and reliable payment, Social Security helps millions of families maintain financial stability during periods of grief.
With $1,566 Social Security survivor benefits being disbursed this July 2025, it’s essential for eligible recipients to check their payment schedule, ensure their banking information is current, and prepare for the electronic payment transition by September 30, 2025.
Survivor benefits offer essential relief and ensure the legacies of working Americans continue to support their families.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Social Security survivor benefits?
Widows, widowers, dependent children, and sometimes parents of deceased workers who paid into Social Security are eligible.
When will I receive my July 2025 survivor benefit?
- July 16: If your birthday is between the 11th and 20th
- July 23: If your birthday is between the 21st and 31st
Are paper checks still available for survivor benefits?
No. Starting September 30, 2025, all payments must be made electronically through direct deposit or approved prepaid cards.
