Social Security payments are not distributed on fixed days each month. The dates can vary depending on when you began receiving benefits.
If your benefits began after May 1997, and you’re receiving retirement benefits, payments typically arrive on a Wednesday, which could fall on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month.
However, if you started your benefits after that time and are also eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your next Social Security payday will be May 2, 2025.
Social Security Payment Schedule for May 2025
If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of the month, Social Security has confirmed that the payment date for eligible recipients will be May 14, 2025.
The amount you’ll receive depends on several factors such as your work history, the amount you earned, and when you decided to start receiving benefits. For instance, if you file at 62, you could be eligible for up to $2,831.
Who is Eligible for the Maximum Social Security Payment?
The maximum payment of $2,831 available to 62-year-olds is possible only if you meet specific conditions:
- Worked for 35 years
- Paid sufficient payroll taxes on jobs covered by the Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Earned the taxable maximum for 35 years
- Filed for benefits at the age of 62
If you meet the first three conditions but file at Full Retirement Age (FRA) or at age 70, you can expect significantly higher benefits. For example, the maximum benefit at Full Retirement Age in 2025 will be $4,018.
For those who file at 70, the maximum benefit could reach $5,108. This amount is attainable if the individual meets the eligibility criteria and also benefits from delayed credits offered by the SSA for waiting to claim benefits.
Average Social Security Payments for May 2025
The average monthly payment for retirees in May 2025 is expected to be around $1,980. These payments typically remain stable month-to-month, though they do fluctuate when a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) increase occurs.
However, there won’t be any new COLA adjustments until January 2026. Despite the COLA announcement in October 2025, the updated benefits will only be available from January 2, 2026.
What to Know Before You Start Receiving Benefits
- Spouse and Children’s Eligibility: When you begin receiving retirement benefits, your spouse and children might also be eligible for benefits if they qualify.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If your Social Security payment is low, you might also qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides direct deposits of up to $967 in 2025.
- SNAP Benefits: SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) can also offer additional financial assistance to help with grocery costs. If your income is limited and your resources are low, applying for both SSI and SNAP could be beneficial.
Social Security Benefits Breakdown for May 2025
| Age | Filing Age | Max Monthly Benefit | Eligibility Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62 | 62 | $2,831 | 35 years of work with maximum taxable earnings, filed at age 62 |
| 66 (FRA) | 66 | $4,018 | 35 years of work, filed at Full Retirement Age (FRA) |
| 70 | 70 | $5,108 | 35 years of work, filed at age 70 with delayed credits |
The Social Security payment schedule for May 2025 provides key dates and amounts based on your birth date and the age at which you file. Individuals who start at age 62 can receive up to $2,831, while those filing later may benefit from higher amounts.
Supplemental Security Income and SNAP can offer additional support to those with limited income, making it crucial to explore all eligibility options to maximize benefits.
FAQs
How much can I receive from Social Security if I start at age 62?
If you file for Social Security at age 62, you could receive up to $2,831, provided you meet the work and earnings criteria.
Will Social Security payments change after May 2025?
Social Security payments are subject to COLA adjustments, but the next increase will not take effect until January 2026.
What are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?
SSI benefits provide additional financial assistance to low-income retirees. In 2025, eligible individuals can receive up to $967 per month.