Next $3,761 Social Security Payment Set for May — Who Qualifies?

Millions of American families rely on Social Security benefits not only for retirement but also in times of loss or disability. If you’ve lost a loved one or are raising children after a spouse’s death, you may be eligible for Survivor Benefits—a critical part of the RSDI (Retirement, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) program.

Thanks to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), average payments have increased, giving families a bit more breathing room. Let’s explore who qualifies, how much families can receive, and the exact payment schedule for May 2025.

How Much Can Families Receive in Survivor Benefits?

According to the SSA’s 2025 COLA Fact Sheet, a widowed parent with two children could receive up to $3,761 per month. This is an increase from $3,669 in 2024, reflecting the annual COLA increase designed to keep pace with inflation.

The SSA doesn’t offer a one-size-fits-all payment; instead, benefit amounts are based on:

• The deceased worker’s earnings record

• Number of eligible family members

• Whether you’re also receiving other Social Security benefits

Disability and Family Payments: What Workers With Dependents Can Get

If you’re a disabled worker supporting a spouse and children, Social Security also provides support. The average monthly payment in 2025 for a worker with a spouse and at least one child is now $2,826—up from $2,757 in 2024.

This increase is crucial for families facing reduced earning capacity due to disability.

Social Security May 2025 Payment Schedule: When You’ll Get Paid

Only one Social Security payment has been made so far this month—on May 2, 2025. That payment was for those who have been receiving benefits since before May 1997.

If you started receiving RSDI payments after May 1997, your payday depends on your birth date:

⚠️ Important: If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) as well, you are not eligible for these mid-month Wednesday payments.

Who Qualifies for Survivor Benefits?

Social Security survivor benefits are not automatic—you must apply to receive them. Those who may qualify include:

• A surviving spouse, including divorced spouses in some cases

• Children under 18, or up to 19 if still in high school

• Disabled children (any age if the disability began before age 22)

• Dependent parents (aged 62 or older)

To estimate potential survivor benefits, check the Social Security Statement for the deceased worker. It outlines estimated benefits in case of retirement, disability, or death.

Visit ssa.gov/survivor for application information and eligibility tools.

Did You Know?

🕊️ One out of every nine Social Security beneficiaries receives survivor benefits.
🧾 A divorced spouse may qualify for survivor benefits even if the marriage ended long ago—if it lasted at least 10 years.
🧒 Children adopted by a surviving spouse may also qualify for benefits based on the deceased parent’s record.

FAQs About Social Security Survivor and Family Benefits

Q: Can I get survivor benefits and my own retirement benefit at the same time?
A: Not simultaneously. Social Security will pay whichever is higher, but you can switch from one to the other later (e.g., take survivor benefits early and switch to your own higher retirement benefit at age 70).

Q: How soon after a loved one’s passing can survivor benefits begin?
A: You should report the death as soon as possible. Benefits usually begin the month after the worker’s death, but the application must be filed.

Q: Is a one-time death benefit still available?
A: Yes. Social Security pays a one-time lump-sum death benefit of $255 to a surviving spouse or eligible child. It must be claimed within two years of the worker’s death.

Q: Can I apply online for survivor benefits?
A: Currently, most survivor benefit applications must be completed by phone or in person. However, information and eligibility screening are available at ssa.gov.

Q: Are survivor benefits taxable?
A: They can be taxable depending on your total income. If you have other earnings or benefits, you may owe taxes on a portion of your Social Security payments.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re dealing with the loss of a loved one or navigating life with a disability, Social Security’s survivor and family benefits can help soften the financial blow. With increased payment amounts in 2025 and a clear payout schedule, staying informed can help you plan with confidence.

If you believe you or your children may qualify, don’t delay—reach out to the Social Security Administration and protect your family’s financial future.