When a spouse dies, emotional pain is often accompanied by financial uncertainty. In times like these, every bit of support counts. That's why the Social Security Administration (SSA) confirms that this month, special payments are being sent to widows and widowers across the country. This is a benefit that many people are unaware of, but it can make a big difference.
What are survivor benefit payments?
Survivor benefits are monthly payments that the SSA provides to people who have lost their spouse. The goal is simple: to offer financial support when it's needed most.
This money comes from the contributions the deceased spouse made during their working years. This way, their contributions to Social Security continue to help their family even after they're gone.
The amount to be received depends on several factors:
- The survivor's age.
- How long the deceased spouse worked and contributed.
- When the benefit is requested.
The later the benefits are requested (for example, at age 67), the higher the monthly amount will be. However, some people prefer to access the money earlier, even if it's a bit less, due to immediate need.
When do July payments arrive?
This month, as every month, the SSA is sending payments to those who qualify as survivor beneficiaries. The dates vary depending on when they began receiving benefits and the deceased spouse's birthday.
Here's the schedule for July 2025:
- If benefits began before May 1997, the payment was made on July 3.
- If they began after, the date depends on the deceased spouse's birthday:
- Born from the 1st to the 10th: July 11.
- From the 11th to the 20th: July 18.
- From the 21st to the 31st: July 25.
In most cases, the money is deposited directly into the bank account. For those who still receive physical checks, delivery may take a few more days.
Who can receive these special payments?
The requirements to access these benefits are clear. The surviving person must:
- Be 60 years old or older (or 50 if they have a disability).
- Have been legally married to the deceased.
- The deceased spouse must have contributed enough to Social Security.
Divorced spouses may also qualify, as long as the marriage lasted at least 10 years. Even if the surviving person remarried after age 60, they can continue receiving the benefit.
How is the benefit requested?
It's important to know that these payments are not granted automatically. To start receiving them, you must contact the SSA. This can be done:
- By phone: calling 1-800-772-1213.
- In person: at a local Social Security office.
You must present documentation such as the death certificate, marriage certificate, and Social Security numbers. Once everything is in order, payments usually begin within 30 to 60 days.