When Social Security Recipients Will Get Checks This Month

Changes to May Social Security Payments

In May, some Social Security payments will be distributed on a different schedule than usual to accommodate unique calendar quirks. This month, beneficiaries will receive two Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks in the same month, a rare occurrence that hasn’t happened in 2025 until now.

Who Receives Social Security Benefits?

Approximately 68 million Americans receive Social Security benefits each month, with about 90% of individuals aged 65 and older being beneficiaries. These payments are not limited to older individuals, as they also go out to retirees, survivors of deceased workers, those with limited resources, disabled workers, the blind, dependents, and more.

Amount of Social Security Payments

The average Social Security payment varies depending on the recipient’s category. Data from March indicates that the typical retirement benefit is slightly over $1,909.

May Social Security Payment Schedule

The distribution date for Social Security payments in May is determined by the recipient’s birthday:

• If born between the 1st and 10th of the month, payment will be on the second Wednesday (May 14).
• If born between the 11th and 20th, payment will be on the third Wednesday (May 21).
• If born between the 21st and 31st, payment will be on the fourth Wednesday (May 28).

SSI payments for May will be sent on the 1st and 30th, with the latter being an early payment for June due to the Sunday distribution date of June 1. Individuals receiving both SSI and Social Security or those who claimed Social Security before May 1997 will receive their benefits a day early on May 2.

Addressing Missing Payments

If you believe your Social Security payment is missing, you can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) through their local offices or toll-free national number at 1-800-772-1213. The SSA recommends waiting three mailing days before inquiring about a missing payment.

Reason for Payment Discrepancies

In April, the SSA began issuing larger monthly checks to around 3 million beneficiaries following the enactment of the Social Security Fairness Act. This legislation eliminated the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), resulting in recalculated payments for certain recipients.

Updates on Social Security and DOGE

In recent months, President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have been reviewing government spending, including Social Security. Musk raised concerns about the system’s efficiency and accuracy, prompting investigations into potential improvements.

Additional Resources and Information

For the complete 2025 Social Security payment schedule and further assistance with Medicare, retirement benefits, disability, or SSI, visit the official SSA website. Creating a “my Social Security” account on SSA.gov can provide personalized information and support.

Understanding Social Security Payments

Social Security benefits are calculated based on average indexed monthly earnings and the recipient’s age. Waiting to claim benefits can result in higher payments, with the program serving as a significant source of income for many retirees.

Explore More on Social Security

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