When a spouse passes away, it’s an emotional time and can also create worries about money. Social Security payments can provide some financial relief for widows, helping cover costs during this tough period.

This June, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will be sending out special checks to widows and widowers across the country. These payments are part of the long-standing survivor benefits program designed to help those who have lost a spouse.

Checks for widows and widowers

After the death of a spouse, the SSA send the retirement benefits they were entitled to and send it to their surviving married partner (hence the name “survivor benefits”). These payments depend on how much the deceased spouse paid into Social Security during their working years. It’s a way of recognizing that their contributions continue to support their family even after they’re gone.

The amount a widow or widower receives varies depending on factors like age, the deceased spouse’s earnings, and when the survivor chooses to start taking benefits. Starting payments at full retirement age generally means a higher monthly check. On the other hand, starting earlier can mean slightly smaller checks, but sometimes the extra help right away is more important.

When the checks will arrive this June

SSA sends out survivor benefits on a regular monthly schedule, and June 2025 is no different. The exact date depends on when the survivor’s benefits started and the birthday of the deceased spouse::

  • For widows and widowers whose benefits started before May 1997: payments arrive on June 3.
  • For those whose benefits began after that: payments are tied to the deceased spouse’s birth date (remember, their birthday, not yours):
    • From the 1st to the 10th: June 11.
    • From the 11th to the 20th: June 18.
    • From the 21st to the end of the month: June 25.

Most of these payments go straight into bank accounts through direct deposit, so they show up quickly and reliably. Those who get paper checks might see a small delay of a few days while being mailed. Overall, the SSA sticks to this schedule every month.

Who can get these special checks?

Widows and widowers who meet the SSA’s survivor benefits rules are the ones who will see these payments in their accounts. Here’s what they need to meet:

  • Be at least 60 years old, or 50 if they have a disability.
  • Have been legally married to the deceased at the time of death.
  • The deceased spouse must have paid enough into Social Security during their working years.
  • In some cases, divorced spouses may also qualify if they were married to the deceased for at least 10 years.

If a widow or widower remarried after age 60, they can still receive survivor benefits. But if they remarried before turning 60 (or 50 if they’re disabled), those benefits generally won’t be available anymore.

Applying for survivor benefits

Survivor benefits don’t start automatically: widows and widowers need to take the first step and let the SSA know they’re ready to begin. That usually means a phone call or a visit to a local SSA office. The fastest way to get help is to call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. The agency can explain what documents are needed and help survivors get through the process with as little stress as possible.

Generally, here’s what’s needed:

  • A copy of the death certificate for the deceased spouse.
  • Marriage certificate.
  • Social Security numbers for both the survivor and the deceased spouse.
  • Birth certificate for the surviving spouse.

Once the SSA has all the paperwork needed and verifies the information, it will probably take 30 to 60 days (one or two months) for survivor benefits to start showing at the widow’s bank account.