Abstract: A velocity independent method of predicting surface-related multiples in any gather of seismic data traces. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of regularizing said gather of seismic data traces; performing a double Fourier transformation to transform said seismic data traces from the x-t domain to the k.sub.x -.omega. domain; decomposing said transformed seismic data traces into uncoupled amplitude and phase spectra; and obtaining an estimate of said surface-related multiples by scaling said amplitude spectrum by one-half the value of the reflection coefficient for the first reflection below the earth's surface and by doubling said phase spectrum. The estimated multiples may then be used for automated velocity determination or for multiple attenuation in the original data.