
Social Security Payment Schedule: If you’re receiving Social Security benefits, knowing your upcoming payment dates is crucial for financial planning. In this article, we break down the official U.S. Social Security payment schedule for April, May, and June 2025, helping you stay informed and on top of your income.
Whether you’re a retiree, receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or getting Supplemental Security Income (SSI), payment dates vary based on your birth date and the type of benefit you receive. Let’s walk through the exact schedule, key changes in 2025, and expert tips to help you make the most of your benefits.
Social Security Payment Schedule
Month | Type of Beneficiary | Payment Dates | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
April 2025 | SSI | April 1 | Monthly SSI payment |
Social Security (pre-May 1997) | April 3 | Fixed payment date | |
Birthdays 1st–10th | April 9 | 2nd Wednesday | |
Birthdays 11th–20th | April 16 | 3rd Wednesday | |
Birthdays 21st–31st | April 23 | 4th Wednesday | |
May 2025 | SSI | May 1 | Monthly SSI payment |
Social Security (pre-May 1997) | May 3 | Fixed payment date | |
Birthdays 1st–10th | May 14 | 2nd Wednesday | |
Birthdays 11th–20th | May 21 | 3rd Wednesday | |
Birthdays 21st–31st | May 28 | 4th Wednesday | |
June 2025 | SSI | June 2 | Since June 1 is Sunday |
Social Security (pre-May 1997) | June 3 | Fixed payment date | |
Birthdays 1st–10th | June 11 | 2nd Wednesday | |
Birthdays 11th–20th | June 18 | 3rd Wednesday | |
Birthdays 21st–31st | June 25 | 4th Wednesday |
Official payment calendar available at: ssa.gov
Staying updated on your Social Security payment schedule helps you avoid surprises and manage your budget smartly. With new changes like COLA increases, WEP/GPO repeals, and a digital-first payment system, 2025 is a crucial year for beneficiaries. Mark your calendars, set up direct deposit, and make use of the SSA’s online tools to stay one step ahead.
Understanding the Social Security Payment Schedule
Who Gets Paid When?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines your payment date based on two key factors:
- When you started receiving benefits
- Your birth date (if you started after May 1997)
SSI payments are always made on the 1st of the month, unless that falls on a weekend or holiday. Social Security retirement, survivor, and disability benefits follow the Wednesday rule:
- 2nd Wednesday: If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th
- 3rd Wednesday: If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th
- 4th Wednesday: If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st
If you started receiving benefits before May 1997, you get paid on the 3rd of each month, regardless of your birthday.
What’s New in 2025?
1. 2.5% COLA Increase
Thanks to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), monthly Social Security payments have increased by 2.5%, raising the average retirement benefit to $1,976 (source).
2. End of Paper Checks
Beginning September 30, 2025, paper checks will no longer be issued. Beneficiaries will need to switch to one of these methods:
- Direct deposit into a bank or credit union
- Direct Express Debit Mastercard
- Electronic Payment Account (EPA) or digital wallet
To make the switch, visit the my Social Security portal.
3. Repeal of WEP and GPO
In a landmark policy shift, the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) were repealed in early 2025. This change means higher benefits and retroactive payments for many public service retirees (source).
Social Security Payment Schedule: How to Find Your Exact Payment Date
Step 1: Create or log in to your my Social Security account.
Step 2: Check your benefit type (SSI, SSDI, or Retirement)
Step 3: Match your birthday to the Wednesday rule (if applicable)
Step 4: Mark your calendar or set a bank alert to confirm deposits
Expert Tips for Managing Social Security Payments
Set Up Direct Deposit
Avoid delays and lost checks by switching to direct deposit. This ensures faster and safer access to your money.
Plan Ahead for Weekend Holidays
If your payment date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, you’ll get your money on the previous business day.
Watch for Payment Errors
If you don’t receive your payment, wait three mailing days before contacting SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
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FAQs on Social Security Payment Schedule
When will I get my SSI payment for June 2025?
You’ll get it on Monday, June 2, since June 1 is a Sunday.
Will Social Security benefits go up again in 2026?
That depends on inflation. The 2026 COLA will be announced in October 2025 based on the CPI-W.
How do I know if WEP or GPO applied to me before?
You can check your benefit statement or contact SSA. Many retired public sector workers were previously impacted.
Can I still receive a paper check in 2025?
No. Paper checks will be phased out by September 30, 2025. Switch to direct deposit or another method now.