Social Security payments for May 2025 will be distributed based on the recipient’s birth date. Most people will receive their payments on Wednesdays, but there are exceptions. Changes to the program include increased payments for some Americans and the transition to electronic payments only. Below are the payment dates for May 2025 along with other important updates for Social Security beneficiaries.
Social Security Payment Dates in May 2025
Social Security payments in May 2025 will be sent according to the following schedule:
- May 14: For those with birth dates between the 1st and 10th of the month.
- May 21: For those with birth dates between the 11th and 20th of the month.
- May 28: For those with birth dates between the 21st and 31st of the month.
If you do not receive your payment on the expected date, the Social Security Administration advises waiting three additional mailing days before contacting the agency. Most payments arrive on time because 99% of beneficiaries are paid electronically.
Two SSI Payments Coming in May 2025
Beneficiaries of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will receive two payments in May. The first payment, due on May 1, covers May 2025 benefits. The second payment, due on May 30, covers June 2025 benefits. This second payment is issued early because June 1 falls on a Sunday.
Around 7.4 million Americans, many of whom are disabled or have limited income, receive SSI benefits. Of these, about half also receive regular Social Security payments.
Changes to Social Security and SSI
Social Security continues to evolve, with President Donald Trump signing an executive order to end paper checks for most Social Security recipients by September 30, 2025. After this date, most beneficiaries will be required to receive their payments electronically. The Treasury Department will provide exceptions for those without bank accounts.
In addition, Trump has expressed interest in ending the taxation of Social Security benefits, though this proposal has not yet been enacted.
The Best Age to Take Social Security Benefits
Choosing when to begin taking Social Security benefits can be confusing. While the best age depends on individual circumstances, it’s important to consider life expectancy and financial needs. Those who wait until age 70 to claim benefits will receive the highest possible monthly amount.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Explained
SSI is a government program that provides financial assistance to people with limited income or resources. To qualify, individuals must be 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability. Some children with disabilities also qualify for SSI. In general, adults receiving SSI cannot have monthly earnings above $2,019.
How to Apply for SSI
If you think you may be eligible for SSI, you can apply online on the Social Security website, visit your local SSA office, or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) during business hours.
Social Security Payment Schedule for May 2025
Here’s the full payment schedule for regular Social Security retirement benefits in May 2025:
- May 14: For those born between the 1st and 10th of the month.
- May 21: For those born between the 11th and 20th of the month.
- May 28: For those born between the 21st and 31st of the month.
