As May 2025 comes to a close, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is set to issue one of the final benefit disbursements for the month.
It’s vital for recipients to understand when to expect their payments, especially due to irregularities in this month’s calendar.
Early Recipients: Who Gets Paid on the 3rd of the Month?
Individuals who started receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997 typically get their checks on the 3rd of each month.
Additionally, if you’re also eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), those payments are deposited on the 1st of each month.
Why May’s Schedule Is Different
In May 2025, the Wednesday payment cycle experienced a slight shift. Normally, benefits are distributed based on the recipient’s birth date, with deposits occurring on Wednesdays.
However, due to how the calendar fell this month, some payments have been delayed compared to the usual schedule.
Updated May 2025 Payment Schedule
Here is a breakdown of the Social Security payment dates for beneficiaries who haven’t yet received their payments:
| Payment Date | Birth Date Range |
|---|---|
| Wednesday, May 21 | Born between the 11th and 20th |
| Wednesday, May 28 | Born between the 21st and 31st |
All payments reflect the latest Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increases.
How Much Will You Receive on May 28, 2025?
If you’re set to receive your Social Security payment on May 28, here’s what you can expect based on your benefit category:
| Benefit Type | Average Monthly Amount (2025) |
|---|---|
| Retired Workers | $1,999.97 |
| Maximum Retirement | $5,108.00 |
| Disabled Workers | $1,581.88 |
| Survivors | $1,565.52 |
| SSI Beneficiaries | $717.87 |
These figures reflect the 2.5% COLA increase for 2025. Looking ahead, projections show a 2.4% COLA adjustment for 2026, marking the lowest increase in the last five years.
Important Considerations for Recipients
- Verify your payment date based on your birthdate.
- Double-check your bank account or Direct Express card on the scheduled date.
- If payment is delayed, allow up to 3 additional business days before contacting the SSA.
The final Social Security payment for May 2025 is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, for recipients born between the 21st and 31st.
Payment amounts vary depending on the type of benefit, and all reflect the recent COLA updates. Staying aware of your payment schedule and average benefit amount ensures that you’re informed and financially prepared.
FAQs
Why is my Social Security payment coming later this month?
May’s Wednesdays didn’t align as in typical months, causing the SSA to adjust its usual payment timeline.
How do I know what my exact Social Security payment will be?
Your amount depends on your work history and benefit category. The SSA sends annual statements or you can check your amount via your mySocialSecurity account.
When is the next COLA increase scheduled?
The next COLA adjustment is projected for 2026 at 2.4%, following a 2.5% increase in 2025.