The Social Security Administration (SSA) has officially confirmed that survivor benefits averaging $1,566 will be disbursed in July 2025.
These monthly payments provide essential financial support to families of deceased workers, including widows, widowers, dependent children, and sometimes even parents.
If you’re one of the millions eligible, understanding when and how you’ll be paid is crucial—especially with upcoming changes in payment delivery methods.
Who Is Eligible for Survivor Benefits?
Survivor benefits are not based on your own work record. Instead, they are tied to the earnings history of the deceased worker who paid into Social Security during their employment. To be eligible, you must fall into one of the following categories:
- Widows or widowers, including divorced spouses
- Children under 18 (or under 19 if still in high school)
- Disabled children whose disability started before age 22
- Dependent parents who relied financially on the deceased worker
A one-time lump-sum death benefit of $255 may also be provided to a surviving spouse or eligible child.
$1,566 Payment Scheduled – These Are the Two Key Paydays in July
If you’re approved for monthly survivor benefits and your case was established after April 30, 1997, the SSA payment schedule depends on your birth date.
Here are the two main paydays in July 2025 for eligible survivors:
| Birthday Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | July 9, 2025 |
| 11th – 20th | July 16, 2025 |
| 21st – 31st | July 23, 2025 |
Those born between July 11 and 20 will receive their benefits on Wednesday, July 16, while those with birthdays between the 21st and 31st can expect payment on Wednesday, July 23.
Upcoming Changes: Paper Checks Being Phased Out
The SSA has announced that paper checks will be discontinued after September 30, 2025. To comply with federal regulations, all beneficiaries will be required to switch to direct deposit or use the Direct Express® Debit Mastercard.
If you still receive paper checks, now is the time to make the switch to avoid missing future payments.
Average Survivor Benefits in 2025
Based on SSA’s most recent figures (as of May 2025), survivor benefit amounts vary based on the relationship to the deceased worker. Here’s a breakdown:
| Recipient Type | Average Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| All Survivors (Combined) | $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 |
| Dependent Parents | $1,697.90 |
As shown above, nondisabled widows and dependent parents receive the highest average benefit, which might come as a surprise to many.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Late
If your direct deposit doesn’t arrive on your scheduled date, allow up to three business days for bank processing. If there’s still no deposit:
- Contact your financial institution first.
- Then contact the Social Security Administration if unresolved.
Social Security survivor benefits play a crucial role in easing the financial burden after the loss of a loved one.
With $1,566 payments scheduled for July 16 and July 23, it’s important to verify your eligibility and ensure you are set up for direct deposit before the phaseout of paper checks in September. Stay updated and proactive to avoid delays and make the most of your entitled benefits.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the $1,566 survivor payment?
Eligible individuals include widows/widowers, dependent children, and financially dependent parents of a deceased worker who paid into Social Security.
What should I do if my survivor payment is delayed?
First, contact your bank. If unresolved after three business days, reach out to the Social Security Administration for assistance.
When will paper check payments stop for survivors?
Paper check payments will be phased out after September 30, 2025. Recipients must switch to electronic payments before this date.