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As May 2025 continues, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has scheduled two key payment dates: May 21 and May 28.
These dates are crucial for millions of retirees and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients who meet specific eligibility requirements.
Understanding whether you qualify for one of these payment days can help you plan your budget and avoid confusion.
Below is a full breakdown of who will receive payments, how much to expect, and what to do if your check is delayed.
Who Is Eligible for May 21 or May 28 Payments?
Social Security payments are disbursed based on your birth date and your filing date. Here’s what you need to qualify for the upcoming May 21 and May 28 deposits:
- You must have started collecting benefits after April 30, 1997.
- Your birthday must fall:
- Between the 11th and 20th for May 21.
- Between the 21st and 31st for May 28.
- You must not be receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income), as these recipients follow a different payment schedule.
If you are receiving SSI and retirement benefits, your next payment is expected on June 3, 2025.
Payment Amounts – How Much Will You Receive?
Depending on your lifetime earnings, filing age, and work history, your Social Security benefit amount can vary greatly. Below is a table summarizing key benefit figures:
| Category | Payment Date | Birth Dates | Average Benefit (April 2025) | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retirees with birthdays 11th–20th | May 21, 2025 | 11th to 20th of the month | $1,999 | $5,108 |
| Retirees with birthdays 21st–31st | May 28, 2025 | 21st to 31st of the month | $1,999 | $5,108 |
| SSI & Retirement Combined | Not eligible in May | N/A | N/A | Next payment on June 3, 2025 |
To qualify for the maximum benefit of $5,108, retirees must have:
- Worked for 35 years in Social Security-covered employment.
- Earned the maximum taxable income each year.
- Delayed filing for benefits until age 70.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment
The SSA advises beneficiaries to wait at least three business days after the expected payment date before taking any action. If your payment hasn’t arrived after that period:
- Contact your bank to verify processing times.
- Check My Social Security account for updates.
- Call the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 to report a missing payment.
Sometimes delays are caused by banks processing large batches or public holidays, so it’s important to remain patient before escalating the issue.
Upcoming June 2025 Social Security Payment Dates
If you do not qualify for the May 21 or May 28 payment, your retirement benefits may already have been deposited earlier in the month, or you may be scheduled for June payments.
The June 2025 payment schedule includes the following Wednesdays:
- June 3, 2025 – SSI & Retirement combined recipients
- June 11, 2025
- June 18, 2025
- June 25, 2025
May 21 and May 28 are important dates for many Social Security recipients this month. Eligibility depends on both your birthday and the date you began collecting benefits.
While the average benefit hovers around $1,999, those with high earnings and delayed filing can receive over $5,000 per month.
If you’re unsure about your payment date or think your deposit is missing, be sure to check your My Social Security account or contact the SSA after the standard waiting period. For others, June 3, 11, 18, or 25 could be your upcoming payday.
FAQs
How do I know if I’m getting my Social Security payment on May 21 or 28?
If you began collecting benefits after April 30, 1997 and your birthday is between the 11th and 31st, you may be scheduled for a May 21 or May 28 deposit depending on your birthdate.
Can I get both SSI and Social Security retirement benefits on May 21 or 28?
No. SSI recipients do not qualify for the May 21 or 28 payments. If you receive both SSI and retirement benefits, your next deposit is scheduled for June 3, 2025.
What’s the maximum Social Security payment I can receive in May 2025?
The maximum benefit for retirees in May 2025 is $5,108 per month. Most retirees, however, receive an average of $1,999, depending on their work and earnings history.