Social Security May 2025 Payment Schedule: What Retirees and SSI Beneficiaries Need to Know

If you’re relying on Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the timing of your monthly deposit can be crucial. As May 2025 rolls on, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has released key payment dates that impact millions of retirees and beneficiaries across the U.S. — including some who may receive their next payment as late as the end of the mon

Who Gets Paid and When in May 2025

The SSA has a staggered schedule for distributing benefits in May. Payments started on Thursday, May 1, for individuals receiving only SSI. Those receiving retirement or disability benefits before May 1997, or both SSI and Social Security, were paid on Friday, May 2.

For everyone else, the SSA uses your birthdate to determine when you receive your check:

  • May 14: For those born between the 1st–10th
  • May 21: For those born between the 11th–20th
  • May 28: For those born between the 21st–31st

Additionally, June’s SSI payment will be sent early — on Friday, May 30 — since June 1 falls on a weekend.

How Much You Could Receive in 2025

Your payment amount depends on your work history and the age at which you retired. According to SSA estimates:

  • The average monthly benefit for a single retiree is $1,976
  • Married couples can expect about $3,089 per month
  • The maximum monthly benefit can reach $5,108 if you delay retirement until age 70

For SSI recipients, the federal maximum in 2025 is:

  • $967 per month for individuals
  • $1,450 per month for eligible couples

However, these amounts may vary depending on other income or state-level supplements, such as in California and New York. Payments are also adjusted annually based on Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA).

What If Your Social Security Payment Is Late?

If your deposit doesn’t arrive on time, the SSA advises waiting at least three full business days before taking further action. Delays can occur due to:

  • Holidays or weekends
  • Banking system issues
  • Outdated personal information (address, bank account, marital status)

Before calling SSA, check your Direct Express card or bank account for late deposits. If your payment is still missing after the grace period, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or, for hearing-impaired users, TTY 1-800-325-0778. Be ready with your Social Security number and payment information.

Conclusion

As the cost of living rises, staying informed about when and how your benefits arrive can make a big difference. Double-check your payment schedule, monitor your account activity, and reach out to SSA if needed.

For more updates, follow us for ongoing coverage of Social Security changes, COLA adjustments, and benefit planning tips.

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