The 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase by the Social Security Administration (SSA) brings slight changes to survivor payments. While not as high as anticipated, beneficiaries, including widows, widowers, and children, can expect some increases.
Understanding Survivor Benefits
Survivor benefits support family members after the death of a working spouse or parent. The 2025 COLA has resulted in a 2.5% increase, slightly adjusting the average survivor payments.
Average Payment for Widowed Mothers and Two Children
Widowed mothers caring for two children are among the primary beneficiaries of survivor payments. Before the 2025 COLA adjustment, the average monthly payment stood at $3,669. With the new 2.5% adjustment, this amount will rise to approximately $3,761. This change offers a $92 increase, providing families with a small financial boost in these challenging times.
Payments for Aged Widows or Widowers
Widows and widowers without dependent children receive slightly lower payments. In 2024, the average monthly payment for an aged widow or widower was $1,788. Following the 2025 COLA, this will increase by $44, bringing the new payment to around $1,832 per month. This results in an extra $528 annually, which can help cover additional expenses that arise from inflation.
How to Calculate Your COLA Increase
If you’re unsure how much your payment will increase, the SSA provides an easy formula. For every $100 in benefits, expect a $2.50 increase. For example, if you receive $1,000 per month, you’ll receive an additional $25, making your new total $1,025. You can also log into your “My Social Security” account to check the exact updated amount.
Additional Factors Affecting Survivor Payments
While COLA adjustments directly impact monthly benefits, several other factors influence the final payment amount. This includes the earnings of the deceased spouse, the number of family members eligible for survivor benefits, and any existing federal or state laws that might adjust payments further. For a detailed calculation of your benefits, consult the SSA’s official website.
| Category | Previous Payment | New Payment | Increase | Annual Gain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Widowed Mother and 2 Children | $3,669 | $3,761 | $92 | $1,104 |
| Aged Widow/Widower Alone | $1,788 | $1,832 | $44 | $528 |
| Survivor Benefits Average | Variable | +2.5% | Variable | Variable |
| SSI Payments (Supplemental) | $914 | $937 | $23 | $276 |
It’s essential to stay informed about the specific changes to your payments, as even a small increase can make a difference in managing daily expenses.
FAQs
How is COLA determined for survivor payments?
COLA adjustments are based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Each year, SSA reviews the inflation rate and adjusts benefits accordingly.
What happens if COLA is lower than expected?
Even if COLA is lower than anticipated, as in 2025, benefits will still increase, but the impact may be less significant. Other economic support systems may be necessary to cover inflation.
Can my survivor payment decrease?
No, survivor payments do not decrease with COLA adjustments. However, other deductions, such as Medicare premiums, might reduce the total payment you receive.
Where can I check my updated survivor benefits?
You can log into your “My Social Security” account on the SSA website to view your updated payment details after each COLA adjustment.
Staying up-to-date with these changes will help you manage your finances more effectively and ensure you’re getting the correct amount.