Millions of Americans are receiving their Social Security payments, with the average payment amount hitting around $2,000. This marks the final payment date for beneficiaries in May, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) follows its monthly schedule based on recipients’ birthdays.
Who Is Receiving Payments Today?
Social Security payments are typically distributed on Wednesdays, with the exact date depending on the beneficiary’s birthdate:
- Those born between the 1st and 10th of the month received their payments on Wednesday, May 14.
- Those born between the 11th and 20th received payments on Wednesday, May 21.
- Today, payments are going out to beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st.
This staggered schedule is designed to help the SSA manage the massive volume of payments processed each month efficiently. It applies mainly to retired workers, disabled workers, and survivors.
Average Payment Amounts for Different Groups
The average Social Security payment varies depending on the type of benefit:
- Retired Workers: The average monthly payment is approximately $1,999.97.
- Disabled Workers (SSDI): Receive about $1,581.88 on average.
- Survivor Benefits: Average payments are approximately $1,565.52 per month.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Recipients: These individuals typically receive payments on the first of each month, with maximum federal payment amounts for 2025 set at $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples.
These amounts can fluctuate based on factors such as an individual’s work history, age at retirement or disability, and other personal circumstances.
Special Notes on SSI and Older Benefits
While most Social Security benefits are paid based on the birthdate schedule, some exceptions apply:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Payments are usually issued on the 1st of every month. However, because June 1, 2025, falls on a Sunday, the June payment will be made early on Friday, May 30, 2025. This adjustment ensures recipients receive their benefits in a timely manner without weekend delays.
- Older Beneficiaries: People who started receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997 may have a different payment schedule, often receiving payments on the 3rd of each month regardless of birthdate.
These details are important for recipients to know so they can plan their finances accordingly.
How Payments Are Delivered
Social Security payments are typically sent either through direct deposit or by a paper check, depending on the recipient’s preference. Direct deposit is the preferred method for most recipients, as it is faster and more secure.
What To Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment
If you believe you should have received your Social Security payment but have not, the SSA recommends taking the following steps:
- Check your payment date: Verify the payment schedule to see if your payment was due today.
- Review your bank account: If you use direct deposit, confirm the payment hasn’t been deposited.
- Contact SSA: Reach out to the SSA as soon as possible if your payment is missing or delayed.
Upcoming Payment Dates to Remember
Looking ahead, the SSA continues this monthly cycle, with June 2025 payments scheduled as follows:
- Born 1st–10th: Wednesday, June 11, 2025
- Born 11th–20th: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
- Born 21st–31st: Wednesday, June 25, 2025
SSI recipients will receive their June payment early on May 30, 2025, due to the weekend adjustment mentioned earlier.
Why Social Security Matters
Social Security remains a vital lifeline for millions of Americans, including retired workers, disabled individuals, survivors of deceased workers, and low-income elderly or disabled people receiving SSI. For many, these payments constitute a significant portion of their monthly income.
Ensuring timely and accurate payments is critical to help beneficiaries cover essential living expenses such as housing, food, utilities, and medical care.
