Losing a spouse is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and during this time of grief, financial worries can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Social Security survivor benefits exist to provide widows and widowers with some much-needed support. In June 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will continue its long-standing program of issuing monthly payments to surviving spouses, helping them manage essential expenses during this transition.
Social Security Checks for Widows and Widowers
Survivor benefits are part of the broader Social Security system. When a person who was receiving or eligible for Social Security passes away, their surviving spouse may be eligible to receive ongoing monthly payments based on the deceased’s work history and contributions.
These benefits are not automatic or one-size-fits-all. The amount a widow or widower receives depends on:
- The deceased spouse’s earnings and Social Security contributions.
- The survivor’s age.
- When the survivor begins collecting the benefits.
Survivors who wait until their full retirement age (typically 66 or 67, depending on birth year) may receive 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefit amount. If they begin earlier—starting as early as age 60 or even 50 if disabled—the monthly payments are lower but begin sooner, offering immediate help.
June 2025 Payment Schedule
Survivor benefits are distributed on a regular monthly schedule by the SSA. The date you receive your June 2025 payment depends on when the survivor began receiving benefits and the birth date of the deceased spouse, not the surviving spouse.
| Situation | Payment Date in June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Benefits began before May 1997 | June 3 |
| Deceased spouse born 1st–10th | June 11 |
| Deceased spouse born 11th–20th | June 18 |
| Deceased spouse born 21st–31st | June 25 |
Most payments are made via direct deposit, which means the funds show up quickly and reliably in the recipient’s bank account. If you’re receiving paper checks, expect a slight delay while the mail is processed.
Who Is Eligible for Survivor Benefits?
To receive these special monthly checks, a widow or widower must meet SSA’s eligibility rules. Here’s a summary of the key requirements:
- Age: Must be at least 60 years old, or 50 if disabled.
- Marital status: Must have been legally married to the deceased at the time of their death.
- Work history: The deceased spouse must have worked long enough to qualify for Social Security.
- Divorced spouses: May qualify if they were married to the deceased for at least 10 years.
- Remarriage: If remarried after age 60 (or after 50 if disabled), survivor benefits are still available. Remarrying before these ages may disqualify you.
How to Apply for Survivor Benefits
Survivor benefits do not begin automatically. The surviving spouse must notify the SSA and go through a short application process. Here’s how to get started:
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to begin the application or schedule an in-person appointment at a local SSA office.
- Be prepared to submit several documents, including:
- The death certificate of the deceased spouse.
- A marriage certificate.
- Social Security numbers for both parties.
- The birth certificate of the surviving spouse.
After all documents are submitted and verified, payments typically begin within 30 to 60 days. Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive funds, but paper checks are still an option.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Social Security survivor benefits are designed to offer ongoing support—not just a one-time payment. These monthly checks can help cover essentials like housing, utilities, groceries, and medical costs while giving surviving spouses time to adjust financially. For many, they are a critical component of life after loss.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or the benefit amount, contacting the SSA directly is the best course of action. Their representatives can walk you through your options and help you plan for the months and years ahead.
FAQs:
How much will I receive as a survivor?
The amount depends on your late spouse’s earnings, your age, and when you begin claiming the benefit.
When will I get my June 2025 survivor payment?
Payments arrive based on when your benefits started and your spouse’s birth date. Most will receive checks on June 3, 11, 18, or 25.
Do I automatically receive survivor benefits after my spouse dies?
No, you must apply through the SSA either by phone or at a local office.