Social Security Payment Hits Today: Who’s Getting Paid?
Millions of Social Security recipients are waking up to their May benefit checks today, Wednesday, May 21. The payment, scheduled for the third Wednesday of the month, goes out to retirees and disability beneficiaries whose birthdays fall between the 11th and 20th of any month.
Who Gets Paid on May 21?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues monthly payments based on your date of birth. If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, your payment is scheduled for the third Wednesday — which is today in May.
Those with birthdays on:
- May 11–20
- Any month (not just May)
- Who began collecting benefits after May 1997
…are included in this round of disbursements.
People who started receiving benefits before May 1997 receive their payments earlier in the month, typically on the third of each month.
How Much Will the May 2025 Check Be?
For 2025, the average Social Security retirement benefit is $1,907, thanks to the 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) applied at the start of the year. However, individual amounts vary based on earnings history and age at retirement.
- Maximum monthly benefit for someone retiring at full retirement age: $3,911
- Minimum payments for low-income or SSI recipients may still apply
Check your personal payment amount through your mySocialSecurity account at SSA.gov or the official mobile app.
What Time Do Payments Arrive?
Most direct deposits are made by 9 a.m. local time, though exact timing depends on your bank. Paper checks, which are less common, may take several days to arrive.
If you haven’t received your deposit by the end of the day:
- Double-check your bank account and pending deposits
- Log in to your SSA.gov account to confirm payment status
- Wait at least three business days before contacting the SSA
What to Do If Your Social Security Payment Is Late
If your May 21 payment doesn’t arrive on time:
- Contact your bank — Sometimes delays happen on the financial institution’s side.
- Check for notifications — SSA may flag account issues or suspicious activity.
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 if payment is still missing after 3 business days.
Final Reminder: Stay Vigilant Against Scams
May also marks peak scam season. Be wary of phone calls, texts, or emails claiming to be from SSA — especially if they request personal or banking information. The SSA will never ask for payment or threaten your benefits over the phone.