The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides financial support to retirees, people with disabilities, and those receiving spousal and survivor benefits. In 2025, the average survivor benefit is $1,645 per month, but payment amounts can vary depending on your specific eligibility.
For those receiving Social Security survivor benefits, the next payment date is February 19, but only for a specific group of recipients. If you’re unsure when you’ll get your payment or how much you may receive, here’s everything you need to know.
Who Gets a Social Security Payment on February 19?
To receive a survivor benefit payment on February 19, you must meet these requirements:
✅ Your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th of any month
✅ You have applied for survivor benefits and been approved
✅ You are not receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
✅ You started getting survivor benefits after May 1997
✅ You have not violated SSA rules
If your birthday is between the 1st and 10th, your next payment will be on March 3. Those born between the 21st and 31st will get paid on February 26.
How Much Will You Receive in Survivor Benefits?
The amount you receive depends on your relationship to the deceased worker and SSA’s benefit calculations. Here’s a breakdown of average survivor benefits in 2025:
- Children of deceased workers → $1,133.60
- Nondisabled widow(er)s → $1,832.47
- Disabled widow(er)s → $951.06
- Widowed mothers and fathers → $1,316.11
- Parents of deceased workers → $1,675.42
For comparison:
- Retirees will receive an average of $1,976 on February 19
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients will get about $1,580
This means survivor benefits are generally lower than retirement or SSDI payments.
Interesting Fact: What’s the Maximum Survivor Benefit You Can Get?
While the average survivor benefit is $1,645, the maximum benefit can be much higher. A widow or widower at full retirement age may receive up to 100% of their deceased spouse’s benefit, depending on their earnings history.
For example, if the deceased worker qualified for a $3,500 retirement check, the surviving spouse could get the same amount in survivor benefits. However, benefits can be reduced if claimed before full retirement age.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I receive both my own Social Security and survivor benefits?
No, you cannot receive both full benefits at the same time. The SSA will pay the higher amount, meaning if your survivor benefit is more than your own retirement benefit, you will receive the survivor payment instead.
2. Do I need to apply for survivor benefits, or are they automatic?
Survivor benefits are not automatic. You must apply with SSA by phone, online, or in person at your local office.
3. Can I receive survivor benefits if I remarry?
It depends on your age. If you remarry before age 60, you typically lose eligibility for survivor benefits. However, if you remarry after 60, you can still collect survivor benefits.
4. Can I work while receiving survivor benefits?
Yes, but if you are below full retirement age, your benefits may be reduced if your earnings exceed SSA’s income limit. Once you reach full retirement age, there are no income restrictions.
5. What if my payment is delayed or missing?
If your payment doesn’t arrive on time, you should:
- Wait at least 3 business days before taking action
- Check your bank account for direct deposit
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 if your payment is still missing
Final Thoughts
If you’re receiving Social Security survivor benefits, make sure you check your payment schedule to know when your next check is coming. While survivor benefits tend to be lower than retirement benefits, understanding your eligibility, payment amount, and possible increases can help you maximize your Social Security income.
For more updates, visit SSA’s official website or contact your local Social Security office.