Social Security benefits, including retirement, survivor, and disability payments, support over 70 million Americans each month.
In March 2025, roughly 60 million individuals were receiving old-age and survivor benefits, while another 8 million were claiming disability benefits.
Why Multiple Payments in May Matter
For some Social Security recipients, May will bring an unusually high number of payments—up to three in a single month.
This can happen for those receiving both retirement benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a federal program supporting elderly, blind, or disabled individuals with limited financial resources.
How Social Security Payments Are Scheduled
Social Security payments are distributed throughout the month, often based on the recipient’s birthdate and whether they are also receiving other benefits like SSI.
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program typically follows a fixed schedule, with some months seeing two payments instead of one.
Understanding the Payment Timing
When the first day of the month falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, the SSI payment is made on the last business day of the previous month.
For example, if the first day of the month falls on a weekend, two payments might be issued in a single month—one at the end of the previous month and the second payment for the next month.
- Note from SSA: If you receive multiple payments in the same month, it is not a duplication. There’s no need to reach out to the Social Security Administration (SSA) unless a payment is missing for more than three business days. Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays are not considered working days.
May 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
Below is the full breakdown of Social Security payments for May 2025:
| Date | Payment Type |
|---|---|
| Thursday, May 1 | SSI payments |
| Friday, May 2 | Retirement benefits for individuals born before May 1997 and retirees who also collect SSI |
| Wednesday, May 14 | Retirement, spousal, and survivor benefits for individuals born between the 1st and 10th of any month |
| Wednesday, May 21 | Retirement benefits for those born between the 11th and 20th of any month |
| Wednesday, May 28 | Retirement benefits for those born between the 21st and 31st of any month |
| Friday, May 30 | SSI payment for June |
Who Might Receive Three Payments in May
In certain cases, Social Security recipients may receive three payments in May. Specifically, if someone receives both retirement benefits and SSI, and they were born before May 1997, they will receive:
- SSI payment on May 1
- Retirement payment on May 2
- Another SSI payment on May 30
This unusual scheduling helps prevent delays and ensures that beneficiaries receive their payments on time.
How Much is Social Security in 2025?
As of January 2025, the average Social Security retirement benefit is approximately $1,976 per month. However, the actual amount you may receive depends on your lifetime earnings and tax contributions. Here are the maximum benefits available based on retirement age:
- Age 62: Maximum benefit of $2,831
- Age 67 (Full retirement age): Maximum benefit of $4,018
- Age 70: Maximum benefit of $5,108
For SSI, the maximum benefit in 2025 is:
- $967 for individuals
- $1,450 for couples
However, SSI payments can vary depending on the recipient’s financial circumstances, including income, living situation, and other eligibility factors.
May 2025 will be an important month for Social Security recipients, especially for those who may receive multiple payments.
Whether you are receiving retirement benefits, spousal benefits, survivor benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), understanding your payment schedule is crucial for managing your finances. Keep track of your payment dates to ensure timely receipt and avoid any confusion.
FAQs
Why do some people get multiple Social Security payments in May?
Multiple payments occur when SSI payments are scheduled to avoid conflicts with weekends or federal holidays. This ensures that recipients receive their payments on time.
How can I check the status of my payment if it is delayed?
If your payment has not arrived within three business days of the scheduled date, you should contact the SSA for assistance. Be sure to wait three working days before reaching out.
Can I expect the same amount each month from Social Security?
The amount you receive may vary based on your earnings history and retirement age. The Social Security Administration calculates payments based on your lifetime earnings and the age at which you begin claiming benefits.