Kim
Millions of Social Security beneficiaries across the United States are set to receive their monthly retirement payments within hours. If your birthdate falls between the 11th and 20th of any month and you began receiving benefits after April 30, 1997, then May 21, 2025, is your payday.
Depending on your age, your Social Security check could range from $1,341 to $2,148, with older retirees receiving higher benefits due to delayed retirement credits.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how much you can expect, when the payments arrive, and what to do if yours is late.
Who Gets Paid on May 21, 2025?
To receive the May 21 payment, you must:
- Be 62 years of age or older
- Have filed and been approved for Social Security benefits after April 30, 1997
- Have a birth date between the 11th and 20th of any month
Those who started receiving Social Security before May 1997 or who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will not get paid on this date.
Average Social Security Payments by Age (May 21, 2025)
Below is a comprehensive table showing the average monthly SSA payment retirees will receive based on their current age:
| Age | Average Monthly Payment (USD) |
|---|---|
| 62 | $1,341.00 |
| 63 | $1,364.00 |
| 64 | $1,425.00 |
| 65 | $1,611.00 |
| 66 | $1,763.00 |
| 67 | $1,929.00 |
| 68 | $1,979.00 |
| 69 | $2,039.00 |
| 70 | $2,148.12 |
These amounts reflect average payments as of December 2024 and may be slightly higher in 2025 due to cost-of-living adjustments (COLA).
What Happens After Age 70?
The following table shows how monthly Social Security payments gradually change after age 70:
| Age | Average Payment (USD) |
|---|---|
| 70 | $2,148.12 |
| 71 | $2,114.43 |
| 72 | $2,117.23 |
| 73 | $2,087.94 |
| 74 | $2,054.16 |
| 75 | $2,064.53 |
| 76 | $2,076.39 |
| 77 | $2,046.16 |
| 78 | $2,060.78 |
| 79 | $2,012.59 |
| 80 | $2,006.20 |
| 85 | $1,944.05 |
| 90 | $1,809.24 |
| 95 | $1,814.95 |
| 99+ | $1,775.88 |
This gradual decline reflects longer payout durations, lifestyle changes, and benefit structure adjustments over time.
Social Security Payment Schedule After May 21
If your birthday is after the 20th, your payment will not arrive on May 21. Here’s what to expect next:
| Birth Date Range | Next Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 21st–31st | May 28, 2025 |
| SSI Beneficiaries | May 30 (for June) |
If you are on SSI only, your June payment will be made early—on May 30, 2025, due to the weekend schedule.
What to Do If You Don’t See Your Payment
Payments usually arrive by direct deposit or paper check. If yours hasn’t landed by May 21, consider the following steps:
- Wait three business days before contacting Social Security
- Check with your bank to ensure no issues occurred during processing
- Log in to your My Social Security account to confirm payment status
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 if payment is missing after 3 mailing days
Most payments will arrive on May 21 without delay, but banking variations can cause slight delays.
With Social Security payments ranging from $1,341 to $2,148 set to arrive within hours, it’s time for eligible retirees to check their bank accounts.
If your birth date falls between the 11th and 20th and you started collecting after April 30, 1997, May 21 is your official payment date.
Remember, payment amounts vary by age, and delays are rare, but if your payment is late, wait a few days before reaching out to Social Security. Stay informed and ensure your retirement benefits reach you on time.
FAQs
Why do older retirees get higher Social Security payments?
Social Security payments increase when you delay claiming them. Filing at age 70 provides 24% more than at full retirement age.
Who is eligible for the May 21 Social Security payment?
Those born between the 11th and 20th and approved for benefits after April 30, 1997 are eligible for this payday.
What is the average Social Security payment in 2025?
As of early 2025, the average for all retirees is about $1,999, though this varies by age and claim history.