The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that eligible survivors can receive monthly payments of up to $1,566 in 2025. These payments, known as survivor benefits, are designed to provide financial support to family members of a deceased worker who was insured under Social Security. If you’re wondering whether you qualify and when you can expect these payments, this article breaks it all down in simple terms. Read on to learn about eligibility, payment dates, and how to apply.
What Are Social Security Survivor Benefits?
Survivor benefits are monthly payments from the SSA to help family members of a deceased person who paid into Social Security during their lifetime. These benefits assist with living expenses for those who depended on the deceased for financial support. In 2025, the maximum survivor benefit amount is $1,566 per month, but the actual amount you receive depends on your situation, such as your relationship to the deceased and their work history.
Who Can Get Survivor Benefits?
Not everyone qualifies for survivor benefits. The SSA has specific rules about who is eligible. Here’s a simple breakdown of who can apply:
- Widows or Widowers: If you were married to the deceased and are at least 60 years old (or 50 if disabled), you may qualify. If you’re caring for the deceased’s child who is under 16 or disabled, you might get benefits regardless of your age.
- Children: Unmarried children under 18 (or 19 if still in high school) can receive benefits. Children with disabilities that started before age 22 may also qualify.
- Dependent Parents: Parents of the deceased who are 62 or older and relied on the deceased for at least half of their financial support may be eligible.
- Divorced Spouses: If you were married to the deceased for at least 10 years and haven’t remarried, you might qualify for benefits.
To receive these benefits, the deceased person must have worked long enough to earn Social Security credits—usually about 10 years, though fewer years may be required for younger workers.
Payment Dates for Survivor Benefits in 2025
The SSA schedules survivor benefit payments based on the deceased person’s birthday. In 2025, there are two main paydays each month for survivors, depending on when the deceased was born. Here’s how it works:
- Born Between the 1st and 10th: Payments are sent on the second Wednesday of each month.
- Born Between the 11th and 20th: Payments are sent on the third Wednesday of each month.
- Born After the 20th: Payments are sent on the fourth Wednesday of each month.
For example, if the deceased was born on July 15th, their survivors would receive payments on the third Wednesday of each month. Payments are typically deposited directly into your bank account or onto a Direct Express debit card.
Special Cases for Payment Dates
If you’re receiving survivor benefits as a parent caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child, your payment might follow a different schedule. Also, if you’re receiving benefits based on your own Social Security record (like retirement benefits) and survivor benefits, the SSA may combine them into one payment. Contact the SSA to confirm your exact payment date if you’re unsure.
How Much Can You Expect to Receive?
The amount of your survivor benefit depends on several factors, including:
- The deceased person’s earnings history.
- Your relationship to the deceased (spouse, child, or parent).
- Whether you’re receiving other Social Security benefits.
In 2025, the maximum survivor benefit is $1,566 per month, but most people receive less. For example, a widow or widower might get 100% of the deceased’s benefit amount if they’re at full retirement age, while children might receive 75%. The SSA calculates the exact amount based on your specific case.
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025
Survivor benefits may increase each year due to the SSA’s Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This adjustment helps benefits keep up with inflation. The exact COLA for 2025 hasn’t been announced yet, but it’s expected to be around 2-3% based on recent trends. This means your payment could increase slightly to help cover rising costs.
How to Apply for Survivor Benefits
Applying for survivor benefits is straightforward, but you’ll need to provide some documents. Here’s what to do:
- Gather Documents: You’ll need the deceased person’s death certificate, their Social Security number, and your own Social Security number. You may also need marriage or divorce papers if you’re a spouse, or birth certificates for children.
- Contact the SSA: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. You can also start the application online at www.ssa.gov, but some steps may require an in-person or phone interview.
- Submit Your Application: The SSA will review your documents and let you know if you’re approved. This process can take a few weeks, so apply as soon as possible.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Double-check that you have all required documents to avoid delays.
- If you’re unsure about eligibility, the SSA can help clarify your situation.
- Keep track of your application status by contacting the SSA or checking online.
Why Survivor Benefits Matter
Survivor benefits provide a financial lifeline for families dealing with the loss of a loved one. Whether you’re a widow, widower, child, or dependent parent, these payments can help cover essentials like rent, groceries, or medical bills. Knowing the payment schedule and eligibility rules can help you plan your finances and make the most of this support.
Conclusion
Social Security survivor benefits offer crucial financial help to eligible family members in 2025, with payments up to $1,566 per month. By understanding who qualifies, when payments are sent, and how to apply, you can ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to. Payments are scheduled based on the deceased’s birthday, typically arriving on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of each month. If you think you might qualify, reach out to the SSA to start your application and get the assistance you need during a difficult time.
For more information, visit www.ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with an SSA representative.