The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that payments for over 70 million beneficiaries will begin disbursing today, kicking off the May 2025 payment cycle. This monthly disbursement is critical for millions of seniors, with over 50% of beneficiaries aged 65 or older relying on Social Security for at least half their household income. For one in four seniors, these benefits cover up to 90% of their living expenses.
Key Dates for May 2025 Social Security Payments
Social Security checks are issued on a staggered schedule throughout the month, based on the recipient’s birth date:
- May 14: Recipients born from the 1st to the 10th
- May 21: Recipients born from the 11th to the 20th
- May 28: Recipients born from the 21st to the 31st
However, those who began receiving benefits before May 1997 were paid earlier, on May 2, since the regular deposit date (May 3) fell on a Saturday. This group includes many retirees and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients.
If any scheduled payment date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, SSA advances the deposit to the previous business day.
Additional Income Sources and Support Programs
In addition to Social Security, 40% of older Americans supplement their income with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or private retirement accounts such as 401(k) plans, providing essential support amid rising costs of living.
Maximum Payment: Who Qualifies for $5,108?
While the average Social Security payment stands at $1,976 for retirees and $1,580 for SSDI recipients, a select few may receive the maximum monthly benefit of $5,108 in May.
This top-tier amount is only available to individuals who:
- Waited until age 70 to begin claiming benefits
- Earned the maximum taxable income ($176,100 in 2025) for 35 years
Those who start receiving benefits at age 62 are eligible for up to $2,831, while those claiming at full retirement age (FRA) — 66 or 67 depending on their birth year — can get up to $4,018. It’s important to note that less than 4% of all Social Security recipients qualify for the maximum benefit.
As millions of Americans await their May payments, Social Security continues to be the financial backbone for retirees and individuals with disabilities, offering stability and support in times of need.