As we head into May 2025, millions of Americans are keeping an eye on their bank accounts, waiting for their next Social Security payment.
Whether you receive retirement, disability, survivor benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a strict schedule when it comes to issuing payments — and it’s important to know exactly when your money is coming.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the SSA payment calendar for May, so you know what to expect and when.
Schedule
The SSA sticks to a structured system based on when you started receiving benefits and your birth date. Let’s walk through how it works:
- If you started receiving Social Security before May 1997, your payment is sent on the 3rd day of the month (or the prior business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday).
- If you applied after May 1997, your payments depend on your birthday:
- 1st–10th of the month: paid on the second Wednesday
- 11th–20th: paid on the third Wednesday
- 21st–31st: paid on the fourth Wednesday
For SSI recipients, payments are sent on the 1st of every month, unless the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday — then it’s sent the business day before.
May Dates
Here are the exact Social Security and SSI payment dates for May 2025:
| Group | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| SSI recipients (May payment) | May 1 |
| Social Security (started before May 1997) | May 2 |
| Birthday 1st–10th | May 14 |
| Birthday 11th–20th | May 21 |
| Birthday 21st–31st | May 28 |
| SSI recipients (June payment, early) | May 30 |
Because June 1, 2025, falls on a Sunday, the June SSI payment will be sent early — on Friday, May 30.
And just to be clear: if you were expecting a payment on Wednesday, May 7, there won’t be one. That date doesn’t align with the standard SSA cycle, so the next payment wave starts on May 14.
Tips
Not sure when your deposit will hit your account? Here are a few useful reminders:
- Set calendar alerts for your payment date to avoid confusion.
- Use your My Social Security account to check your deposit status.
- Contact your bank or financial institution if your deposit doesn’t arrive on time — especially if it’s been two business days past your expected date.
- Paper checks may take a few extra days, depending on mail delivery in your area.
Knowing your exact SSA payment date each month can help you plan your budget and reduce stress.
Whether you rely on these payments for bills, groceries, or everyday expenses, staying on top of the schedule ensures no surprises when you check your account balance.
FAQs
When is the next SSI payment?
May 30, as June 1 is a Sunday.
Who gets paid on May 2?
Those who began benefits before May 1997.
Why no payment on May 7?
May 7 is not a scheduled SSA pay date.
How are SSA pay dates chosen?
Based on birthday and benefit start date.
Can payments come early?
Yes, if the 1st falls on a weekend.
