Millions of Social Security beneficiaries are waiting for their monthly payments this May 2025. Whether you’re a retiree, receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or getting both SSA and SSI together, it’s important to know when your money is coming. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has now confirmed the full payment calendar for May, and some early payments for June will also be processed before the month ends.
Let’s break it all down in simple terms — from who gets paid and when, to what to do if your money doesn’t arrive on time.
Who Gets Paid and When in May 2025?
Social Security and SSI payments follow a set pattern every month. May is no different, with payments being made depending on when you were born, when you started receiving benefits, and what type of benefit you get.
Here’s the confirmed schedule for May 2025:
May 1 (Thursday)
This date is for people who only receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income).
May 2 (Friday)
This is for:
- People who started getting SSA benefits before May 1997
- Those receiving both SSI and SSA together
- Beneficiaries who live abroad
May 14, 21, and 28 (Wednesdays)
SSA retirement payments are split based on your birth date:
- Born between the 1st–10th: You get paid on May 14
- Born between the 11th–20th: You get paid on May 21
- Born between the 21st–31st: You get paid on May 28
May 30 (Friday)
This payment is an early SSI payment for June 2025. Since June 1 is a weekend, the payment is sent out the Friday before.
How Much Can You Expect to Get?
The amount of money you receive depends on how long you worked, your earnings, and when you retired.
For Retired Workers in 2025:
- Average monthly benefit (individual): $1,976
- Average monthly benefit (couple): $3,089
- Maximum possible benefit: $5,108 (if retirement delayed until age 70)
For SSI Recipients:
- Maximum for individuals: $967
- Maximum for couples: $1,450
Note: These are federal maximums. Your actual payment may be lower if you earn other income or if you get help from the state. Some states, like California and New York, offer extra support on top of federal SSI amounts.
What If You Receive Both SSI and SSA?
People who get both types of benefits (called concurrent beneficiaries) get their payments on different days to avoid confusion. Your SSA retirement benefit comes first (on May 2) and then your SSI check is issued separately. This schedule helps the government keep payments organized.
What To Do If Your Payment Is Late
If your Social Security or SSI payment doesn’t arrive on time, don’t panic. Sometimes, delays happen due to holidays or bank processing times.
Here’s what you should do:
- Wait for at least three business days after your payment due date.
- Check your bank account or Direct Express card to see if the money came in late.
- Update your personal details with the SSA, like your address or bank account info, to avoid delays in the future.
- If the payment still hasn’t arrived, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. If you use a TTY device, call 1-800-325-0778.
Make sure to have your Social Security number and details about your missed payment when you call.
The Social Security payment schedule for May 2025 has been fully confirmed. Whether you receive retirement benefits, SSI, or both, knowing your exact payment date helps you plan better.
With payments ranging from $967 to over $5,000 depending on your benefit type, it’s important to stay updated and ensure your personal details with SSA are always correct. If your money is delayed, wait a few days, check your accounts, and reach out to SSA if needed. Staying informed means you won’t miss out on what you’ve earned.
