Apart from standard retirement and SSDI benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) also provides survivor benefits to eligible Americans. These payments are designed to support families who have lost a loved one who paid into the Social Security system. Beneficiaries can include widows, children, and even parents, depending on specific eligibility rules.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how much they receive, when they get paid, and what changes are coming to the payment process later this year.
Who Can Receive Social Security Survivor Benefits?
Unlike regular retirement benefits, which require at least 10 years of work history and 40 credits, survivor benefits don’t require the applicant to have a work history. Instead, eligibility is based on the deceased worker’s Social Security contributions.
Eligible survivor categories include:
- Widows or widowers
- Dependent children
- Parents of deceased workers (in specific cases)
In addition to monthly financial assistance, some families may receive a one-time lump sum payment of $255 after the worker’s death.
$1,566 Survivor Benefit Scheduled for July 16, 2025
For those receiving survivor benefits under the post-April 30, 1997 system, monthly payments are scheduled based on birthdates, not a fixed date. These individuals typically receive their benefits on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of each month.
In July 2025:
- If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, expect your survivor payment on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
- The average survivor benefit currently stands at $1,566.66 per month.
How SSA Determines Your Payment Date
The SSA uses your birthdate to determine your payment schedule:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date in July 2025 |
|---|---|
| 1st–10th | First Wednesday (Not applicable here) |
| 11th–20th | July 16, 2025 |
| 21st–31st | July 23, 2025 |
If you’re unsure when to expect your deposit, use this breakdown based on your date of birth and benefit type.
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Mandatory Shift to Electronic Payments After September 2025
As of now, survivors can receive their Social Security benefits via:
- Direct deposit
- Paper check
However, this is about to change. Starting September 30, 2025, the SSA will stop issuing paper checks. All future benefit payments must be made electronically, either through direct deposit or another approved method.
Beneficiaries who rely on paper checks are strongly encouraged to make the switch before the deadline to avoid missed or delayed payments.
Who Will Receive the $1,566 Payment on July 23, 2025?
If you’re collecting survivor benefits and your birthday falls between July 21 and July 31, your next payment will be made on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.
Just like other payments, it may take up to 3 business days to reflect in your bank account, depending on your financial institution’s processing time.
Average Survivor Benefit Amounts in 2025
According to SSA’s latest figures from May 2025, the average monthly survivor benefits differ based on the recipient category:
| Recipient Category | Average Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| 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 benefits provide critical financial support to families facing the loss of income due to a loved one’s passing.
Why Survivor Benefits Matter
Social Security survivor benefits serve as a lifeline for many families. Whether it’s a child who lost a parent or an elderly parent who lost a working child, these payments help bridge financial gaps.
The upcoming switch to electronic payments is an important milestone for the SSA, streamlining the system and minimizing the risk of mail-related delays or fraud.
What You Need to Do Before September 30, 2025
To ensure uninterrupted payments, beneficiaries must:
- Enroll in direct deposit or an approved electronic payment method
- Update account information if any recent changes occurred
- Contact the SSA if you need help making the transition
This shift not only improves efficiency but also protects against payment theft and delivery errors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who qualifies for Social Security survivor benefits?
Survivor benefits are issued to widows, widowers, dependent children, and sometimes parents of deceased workers who had earned enough Social Security credits.
Q2. What is the average survivor benefit payment in 2025?
As of May 2025, the average monthly payment is $1,566.66, with some categories such as nondisabled widow(er)s receiving up to $1,863.71.
Q3. When will I receive my July 2025 payment?
- July 16: If your birthdate is between the 11th and 20th.
- July 23: If your birthdate is between the 21st and 31st.
Q4. What should I do if my payment is delayed?
Wait 3 business days after your scheduled date. If still missing, contact your bank or the SSA for assistance.
Q5. Will paper checks still be available?
No. After September 30, 2025, all benefits will be issued electronically. Paper checks will be discontinued permanently.