May is just around the corner, and with it comes a fresh round of Social Security payments for millions of Americans.
Whether you’re a retiree, a survivor benefit recipient, someone on disability, or an SSI beneficiary, knowing exactly when and how much you’ll receive can make a huge difference when budgeting your month.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know for May 2025.
Schedule
Here’s a quick look at Social Security payment dates for May 2025:
Payment Date | Who Gets Paid |
---|---|
Thursday, May 1 | SSI beneficiaries (May payment) |
Friday, May 2 | Retirement benefits for those on Social Security before May 1997 and dual SSI/Social Security beneficiaries |
Wednesday, May 14 | Birthdays between the 1st–10th |
Wednesday, May 21 | Birthdays between the 11th–20th |
Wednesday, May 28 | Birthdays between the 21st–31st |
Friday, May 30 | SSI beneficiaries (June payment) |
This month is a little unusual because SSI recipients will receive two payments — one on May 1 for May and another on May 30 for June. This happens whenever the first of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, and the SSA moves the payment earlier.
SSI
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is typically paid at the start of each month. In May 2025, SSI recipients get two payments:
- May 1: Regular May payment
- May 30: Early June payment
This ensures no one is left without income just because of how weekends and holidays line up.
Retirement
If you’re receiving retirement, spousal, or survivor benefits and your birthday falls within certain ranges, your payment dates are:
- Born 1st–10th: Paid May 14
- Born 11th–20th: Paid May 21
- Born 21st–31st: Paid May 28
Those who have been receiving benefits since before May 1997 get their payment earlier, on May 2.
Amounts
Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to receive:
Benefit Type | Maximum Monthly Payment 2025 |
---|---|
Retire at 62 | $2,831 |
Retire at 67 | $4,018 |
Retire at 70 | $5,108 |
Average Benefit | $1,976 |
SSI Individual | $967 |
SSI Couple | $1,450 |
Keep in mind these are maximum figures. Your actual payment depends on your work history, lifetime earnings, and the amount of Social Security taxes you paid over the years.
Double Payments
If you’re wondering why SSI beneficiaries receive two checks in May, here’s the answer: whenever the first of the next month lands on a weekend or federal holiday, the SSA pays early. That’s why SSI for June is coming on Friday, May 30.
It’s not a bonus payment — it’s simply your June check arriving early. Plan accordingly so your budget stretches into the next month.
Tips
- Double-check your deposit dates so you’re not caught off-guard
- Budget your May 30 SSI payment wisely — it needs to last into June
- Set up direct deposit for faster, safer access to your money
Staying aware of these details can make managing your Social Security benefits much easier, helping you maintain peace of mind and financial stability.
FAQs
When will SSI payments be made in May 2025?
On May 1 and an early June payment on May 30.
What if I started Social Security before May 1997?
You’ll get your payment on Friday, May 2.
How much is the average retirement check in 2025?
The average retirement benefit is about $1,976 monthly.
What is the maximum SSI payment for individuals?
$967 per month for eligible individuals.
Why are there two SSI payments in May?
Because June 1 falls on a weekend, the payment is made early.