May 2025 Social Security payments: Who gets paid after May 15?
Social Security payments for May 2025 continue later this month, with the next checks scheduled for May 22 and May 31. These payments are part of the Social Security Administration’s staggered monthly distribution system, based on a recipient’s birth date and the date they began receiving benefits.
Millions of retirees and disability beneficiaries rely on these scheduled deposits to manage essential expenses such as housing, groceries, and medical care.
Who gets a Social Security payment on May 22?
If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month, and you started receiving benefits after May 1997, you’re part of the fourth payment group. Your May Social Security check will arrive on Wednesday, May 22, 2025.
Payment delivery methods include:
- Direct Deposit: Typically available by the morning of May 22
- Paper Check: Mailed out on or just before the payment date
To confirm eligibility and timing, log into your My Social Security account or call the SSA directly.
What about the May 31 payment?
Some recipients may receive a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or adjusted benefit payment on Friday, May 31, 2025. This often happens when the first of the next month falls on a weekend or federal holiday.
While not part of the regular Social Security retirement schedule, May 31 may be a payment date for:
- SSI beneficiaries whose June 1 payment is advanced
- Individuals receiving back pay or other SSA adjustments
- Dual beneficiaries who receive both SSI and Social Security
Always check your SSA account for confirmation of any unexpected payment dates.
Full Social Security payment schedule for May 2025
| Date | Who Receives Payment |
|---|---|
| May 3 | Those who started benefits before May 1997 |
| May 8 | Birthdays between the 1st and 10th |
| May 15 | Birthdays between the 11th and 20th |
| May 22 | Birthdays between the 21st and 31st |
| May 31 | Possible SSI or adjusted benefit payment |
How much will beneficiaries receive?
Benefit amounts vary based on individual work history, income, and the age at which benefits were claimed.
- Maximum monthly benefit: $5,108 (for retirees who delayed filing until age 70)
- Average monthly retirement benefit: $1,976
Most recipients will see the same monthly payment as earlier this year unless a recent adjustment has occurred.
What to do if your payment is late
If you don’t receive your May 22 or May 31 payment as expected:
- Wait three business days before taking action
- Confirm your Direct Deposit or mailing details via SSA.gov
- Use the “Where’s My Payment?” tool to check status
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance
Looking ahead to June 2025
The SSA will continue payments on its regular schedule in June. Beneficiaries can expect their first June payments as early as June 3, depending on eligibility group.